Umno MPs come to Tajuddin’s defence after controversial appointment

 

(From left) Tajuddin Abdul Rahman should be given a chance to prove that he is a suitable choice as ambassador to Indonesia, say Nazri Aziz and Salim Sharif.

PETALING JAYA: Two Ummo MPs have come to the defence of Tajuddin Abdul Rahman after his controversial appointment as the ambassador to Indonesia, with one expressing belief the Pasir Salak MP can strengthen ties between Jakarta and Putrajaya.

Nazri Aziz said the public should refrain from harbouring any prejudice against Tajuddin’s appointment and from speculating on “things that have yet to occur”.

“Tajuddin can strengthen bilateral ties between the two countries,” the former law minister and current Padang Rengas MP said.

“After all, he was re-elected by the constituents in Pasir Salak for several terms (since 2008). This proves he can appeal to anyone.”

Tajuddin’s appointment has drawn brickbats from politicians and former ambassadors, with some citing his poor handling of a collision involving two trains when he was the Prasarana Malaysia Bhd chairman last year.

He was sacked from the post in May following criticism that he had been insensitive at a press conference he held after the accident left 213 passengers injured.

Jempol MP Salim Sharif said Tajuddin should not be punished for past mistakes, adding that the incident could serve as a lesson in avoiding issues that could strain ties between Malaysia and Indonesia.

Salim also said Tajuddin’s appointment should be respected as it was agreed upon by Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

“We can replace him if he doesn’t perform. It is not like Tajuddin will be the ambassador forever,” he said. - FMT