Fahmi appointed govt spokesman

 

Communications and digital minister Fahmi Fadzil said the media could refer to him for verification of any issues pertaining to the government. (Bernama pic)

PUTRAJAYA: Communications and digital minister Fahmi Fadzil has been appointed spokesman for the unity government and will handle its dealings with the media.

Fahmi, who confirmed this today, said Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim had issued a directive at the Cabinet meeting two weeks ago that he (Fahmi) and his ministry would act as the representative, or spokesperson, for the government.

Fahmi said he would handle the media conference after the Cabinet meeting every Wednesday if Anwar was not available.

“If the prime minister is unable to host the weekly media conference, the ministry and I will handle it,” he told reporters after the ministry’s monthly gathering.

Fahmi said the media could refer to him if there was a need for verification on any issues pertaining to the government

“This is to ensure that the issues are referred to the right ministry or minister for feedback,” he said.

Fahmi said his ministry would also discuss with the broadcast stations to provide detailed and comprehensive information regarding government activities that would be aired in the news slot next week.

“Various information is presented by the ministries and agencies but there is no emphasis on the effectiveness of its delivery,” he said.

He said agencies such as the information department, Bernama, and Radio Televisyen Malaysia must help the government to explain the concept of Madani.

“It is more than just a slogan, (it represents) the intention of the government,” he said, adding that it was important for the ministry to study, interpret, and refine the meaning of Madani for the benefit of the people.

On the appointment of Nurul Izzah as the prime minister’s senior economics and finance adviser, Fahmi said the government had also appointed several other individuals as advisers, including former Petronas CEO Hassan Marican.

“The term adviser is clear because they will not touch on policy matters, have no source of authority including to call for meetings and they are not paid any salary,” he said. - FMT