NEWLY appointed Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Hannah Yeoh has dismissed race-based criticism of her appointment as the first non-Malay to hold the portfolio.
“Race or skin colour has never defined or limited our work. Since 2008, whether as Subang Jaya assemblyman, Selangor State Assembly Speaker, Segambut MP, Deputy Women, Family and Community Development Minister or Youth and Sports Minister, my focus has always remained on policy, implementation and results, rather than the colour of my skin,” she said at a press conference at Menara Seri Wilayah, Putrajaya after clocking in at her new office.
The Cabinet reshuffle announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on Dec 16 sparked online debate, particularly about the appointment of non-Malays to both the Minister and Deputy Minister positions for Federal Territories. Yeoh is supported by Tawau MP Datuk Lo Su Fui as Deputy Minister.
“My mind and heart remain committed to serving the people. I am ready to get to work immediately and let my track record speak for itself. Drawing on this experience, our administration will prioritise close cooperation with all Federal Territories MPs.
"As elected representatives, they understand the pulse of their respective constituencies; that is the voice of democracy that deserves to be heard, and the voice of the people represented by our MPs,” she said.
When asked about the redevelopment of Kampung Baru, Yeoh said she would meet with the relevant agencies for updates before commenting. “It is vital to preserve traditional Malay villages in Federal Territories. As the Segambut MP overseeing Kampung Sungai Penchala, you can see the record on how we protect traditional villages,” she added.
Yeoh also shared her vision for the Federal Territories to be “clean in form and substance.”
“This is not just about cleanliness but also clean in governance. I really want the place to be a safe dwelling and working place for people and that they will be able to enjoy life. It is important for us to be business friendly too.”
