PUTRJAYA must recruit a new generation of leaders for top positions instead of continuing to give the jobs to retired officials, Kepong MP Lim Lip Eng said.

Lim said the appointment of retired officials will not address the need for fresh, forward-thinking governance.

He was referring to the appointment of Ramlan Harun to the Election Commission chair.

Ramlan retired on May 30 from his position as the secretary-general of the Rural and Regional Development Ministry.

“While his impressive track record as a diligent senior government official is commendable, this decision raises questions about whether it is the best policy choice in the current Malaysian political context,” said Lim in a statement.

He said the government could have appointed a serving official or an expert from a local university to bring “current, cutting-edge knowledge and a potentially less politicised perspective to the role”.

Lim said a candidate from a local university would inject much-needed academic rigour and independent analysis into the EC’s operations.

“Their involvement could help fortify the EC’s reputation as an impartial body committed to upholding democratic principles,” he said.

He said the practice of hiring retired officials to senior positions could discourage young and talented people from joining the government sector.

“While Ramlan’s appointment as the new EC chairperson is a positive development, it is worth considering whether appointing a serving government official or an academic expert could better serve Malaysia’s evolving political needs,” he said.

“Such a policy could enhance the EC’s effectiveness, ensure greater public confidence in its operations, and support the broader goals of democratic reform and governance in Malaysia.” – June 27, 2024.