Education Minister Maszlee Malik’s appointment as president of the International Islamic University of Malaysia (IIUM) will be reviewed, Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad said.
“With regard to IIUM, many have voiced their opinions. We are always sensitive to public opinion and we will review this appointment since it is not carved in stone.
“We can change our stance,” Mahathir told reporters when asked.
He said this during a press conference in Petaling Jaya today, after chairing the Pakatan Harapan presidential council meeting.
This was a departure from Mahathir's remarks yesterday which defended the appointment saying it was based on merit and that the cabinet would keep Maszlee in check to avoid a conflict of interest.
The university has posted a congratulatory note on Maszlee’s appointment on Sept 4 but this quickly drew public backlash and allegations of conflict of interest.
Among others, Kampung Tunku assemblyperson Lim Yi Wei urged Maszlee to relinquish his post while Umno supreme council member Reezal Merican Naina Merican said the minister should reconsider the appointment.
However, the university defended the appointment saying that Maszlee is well-versed in the university’s inner workings as a former lecturer and he has agreed to serve his three-year term without remuneration.
-Mkini
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