Loke dismisses criticism of cabinet 'bloat'

Transport Minister Anthony Loke has dismissed criticism of a bloated cabinet following this morning’s announcement of cabinet reshuffling and added appointments.

Speaking at a press conference, he said that no decision made will satisfy all parties but an emphasis must be placed on utilising resources for the betterment of the people.

“With whatever decision, there will be people who agree, disagree or criticise. That is to be expected.

“There were calls for a second finance minister and now a second finance minister has been created. Yet there will be criticism of why the cabinet was enlarged,” Loke said at the press conference held at DAP’s headquarters.

“But a decision has been made, it’s important for the government to focus on our job and to deliver - ensuring there is better economic growth, utilisation of resources.

“At the end of the day, the standard of living of the people must be uplifted,” he added.

This morning’s announcement saw an increase of three new ministers appointed, from 28 to 31 ministers.

It also saw the appointments of two more deputy ministers, raising the number from 27 to 29.

Loke said that this was still a lower number compared to what was practised in previous administrations.

“It is something that is within the precedent and has been the practice of the government for the past 10 to 20 years.

“I think what is most important is delivering to the public and (demonstrating) how well the cabinet and government can fulfil and implement our policies,” he said.

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Biggest winner

Meanwhile, the DAP secretary-general dismissed claims that the party was the “biggest winner” in the cabinet reshuffle.

“Well, if you look at it, it's not true to say that we are the biggest winner.

“In terms of net increase, it's only a net increase of one additional post. The same goes for Umno,” he said.

Loke maintained that Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim had taken into account the composition of all component parties in the government to be represented in the cabinet.

“I think overall, it is a fair adjustment, I would say.”

Asked about his views on the performance of DAP leaders in the government, he said that all elected representatives in the party are held to high expectations.

“We always raise our bar. Because we know, the public, especially our supporters, hold DAP to a higher standard than any other parties.

“We are being scrutinised every day. Every single one of us is being scrutinised. So I always remind our elected representatives, especially those who are in government - be it ministers or deputy ministers - they have to be very mindful of the expectations of our supporters,” Loke said. - Mkini