Newly appointed ambassador Tajuddin says critics are unfair

Pasir Salak MP Tajuddin Abdul Rahman, whose recent appointment as the ambassador to Indonesia has faced fierce criticism, said the brickbats have been unfair.

Tajuddin said he was not "someone by the street" who should be given such treatment but is opting not to rebut the criticism for the time being.

"I don't want to make statements here and there but try to remain calm as I read what people write, some of them are unfair towards me.

"They do not know me, they only know me as an old man but in fact, I have served the government and country for 45 years, since I was 25 years old.

"But I am being treated like some person by the roadside," he was quoted as saying by Utusan Malaysia.

Tajuddin, who is expected to depart to Indonesia to begin his service next week, said he will respond when the time is right.

Known for his combative style, the three-term MP was asked if he will soften his approach now that he is an appointed diplomat.

"How am I to tone down? A fighter never tones down," he was quoted as saying.

What is more important, he said, is his sincerity and commitment.

Tajudddin was sacked from the Prasarana chairperson post in May last year for his insensitive handling of an LRT accident that left scores injured.

His ambassadorship appointment had been speculated since November last year.

At the time, the planned appointment was said to be a reward for his strong backing for Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

Ismail Sabri defended the appointment, stating Indonesia has agreed to it. - Mkini