A REFORMIST such as Anwar Ibrahim should not allow the practice of appointing politicians to government-linked companies (GLCs) to continue under his watch as prime minister, civil society groups said.

The groups expressed regret over the ongoing practice, adding there were many others who are capable of leading those companies other than politicians, even though they are qualified.

They were commenting on the recent appointment of former Umno Youth chief Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki as Mara chairman. His appointment was confirmed by Deputy Prime Minister and Rural and Regional Development Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi on Sunday.

Zahid gave the brief response when he was asked to comment on a photo that went viral on Twitter showing him handing over the appointment letter to Asyraf. The tweet drew criticisms from social media users who questioned Asyraf’s appointment.

Asyraf takes over from former Beaufort MP Azizah Mohd Dun of Sabah Bersatu, who held the post for the past three years.

Speaking to The Malaysian Insight, Anil Netto of Aliran said Putrajaya could have chosen someone with financial expertise to handle Mara – a GLC with billions of ringgit in its coffers.

He said even if Asyraf were capable, there are many experts in the field who are equipped to manage Mara. Netto hoped the decision could be reviewed.

“It is disturbing. The same practice was done by the previous governments and we are copying it,” he said.

“We need people with proven expertise to lead GLCs, people with management backgrounds. Mara has billions in its coffers and although the new chairman is capable, there are many others who are more capable who can lead Mara.

“It is like when Anwar appointed Nurul Izzah (his daughter). It was not that she was not capable but there are others who can do the job.

“I hope the government can review the decision (Asyraf). We need to set a good example.”

It was reported that the Perikatan Nasional administration previously placed 140 political appointees in 39 organisations, including Tenaga Nasional Bhd, Felda and Mara.

Meanwhile, Bersih chairperson Thomas Fann said someone like Anwar shouldn’t be allowing such a practice to continue under his watch.

He said the appointment smacks of political patronage, a scourge that has plagued the country for decades.

“It is regrettable that Anwar who campaigned for over two decades as a reformist would allow this.

“And if they are currently elected representatives, it is also a conflict of interest and a disservice to the voters who elected them. Their time and attention would be divided between discharging their parliamentary and corporate duties,” Fann said.

He said parliamentarians or state assemblymen should be banned from holding positions in GLCs.

“GLCs are custodians of public wealth and resources and we need to appoint people who are best qualified to add value to these corporate entities instead of draining its funds through lucrative pays and perks.

“In the worst case scenario, funds could be corruptly diverted for personal gain,” he said.

Fann also called for public accountability of these appointments and that a clear process be put in place.

“This is to ensure that the best candidates are selected based on their qualifications and experiences even if they are non-elected politicians like Asyraf Wajdi,” he said. – March 14, 2023.