MP concerned at talks of Malacca governor candidates implicated with graft

DAP's Kota Melaka MP Khoo Poay Tiong has expressed concern at speculations that certain leaders who have previously been implicated with graft are potentially being considered as candidates for the new Malacca governor.

Khoo (above) noted that among the speculated candidates were Umno's former Malacca chief minister Mohd Ali Rustam and Bersatu supreme council member Zahid Mat Arip which he said has caused unease among Malaccans.

"For the record, Ali and three of his agents were found guilty for money politics in 2009 by the disciplinary board of his own party Umno. 

"Zahid (photo) was recently linked to the corruption case of former Felda chairperson Mohd Isa Abdul Samad. The case is currently being heard in court," he said in a statement.

Khoo stressed that the position of a governor must be occupied by someone with high integrity.

"The individual nominated for appointment must be of high integrity, independent, and enjoys public confidence.

"For example, the new Yang di-Pertua Negeri could be appointed among retired civil servants or local NGO leaders. The candidates should be nominated based on their capability and track record.

"At the same time, individuals with a tainted track record or close political affiliations should not be nominated," he said.

Khoo added that Malacca Chief Minister Sulaiman Md Ali could also consider a public vote to guide his decision.

He stressed that Sulaiman (photo) cannot take the matter lightly.

"The Yang di-Pertua Negeri plays an important role in the state’s governance. This includes influence over matters such as pardoning and the dissolution of the state assembly.

"The Yang di-Pertua Negeri is also the source and symbol of the state’s sovereignty.

"I urge the chief minister and leaders in Malacca to be more prudent on this issue. The appointment of the new Yang di-Pertua Negeri will reflect the policy and attitude of Perikatan Nasional as the government of the day," he said.

Sulaiman was sworn in as the new Malaca chief minister on March 9 for the PN-led state government.

This is after the Pakatan Harapan state government collapsed following Bersatu's decision to quit the coalition and side with BN.

The new PN state government is now replacing appointments made by the previous Harapan government. - Mkini