Zahid: MPs in GLCs to ensure Putrajaya's agenda, take care of people's interest

Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the appointment of MPs to head government-linked companies and agencies was to help ensure that they can carry out Putrajaya's agenda.

He added the MPs can also ensure that the GLCs serve the people's interest.

His comments came amid criticism that the slew of political appointments made by the new Perikatan Nasional government went against good governance and will undo the reforms by the previous Pakatan Harapan government.

"Umno congratulates MPs from Umno, MCA, MIC and PAS for their appointments as chairpersons or board members of government-linked companies, investment companies, commissions, agencies and institutions.

"Their appointments are a responsibility to ensure all companies, agencies and institutions carry out the government's agenda and aspiration to develop the country and the economy for the majority.

"This ensures direct involvement of Muafakat Nasional parties in the federal government to oversee these companies, agencies and institutions' implementation of policies and operations in ensuring the people's welfare is preserved," Zahid said in a Facebook statement.

Muafakat Nasional refers to the alliance between Umno and PAS. He made no mention of Perikatan Nasional, the current governing coalition comprising Bersatu, BN, PAS, GPS, PBS and Star.

Zahid said it was the tradition since BN's era for GLC and GLICs (government-linked investment companies) to assist in spurring the economy and people's socio-economic position through strategic businesses, particularly in infrastructure development.

"I ask all chairpersons and board members from Muafakat Nasional to serve with responsibility and dedication," he said.

He added that even though the board members of these entities may be appointed from amongst politicians, their senior management members were appointed based on merit.

"God-willing, the non-executive board members can provide guidance and ideas to the professional management team to improve the operations of these companies," he said. - Mkini