Choice of EAC members was PM’s decision, Azmin says

KUALA LUMPUR: The selection of Economic Action Council (EAC) members was the decision of the Prime Minister, says Datuk Seri Azmin Ali.

Asked why Prime Minister-in-waiting Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim was not in the council, the Economic Affairs Minister said it would however involve all stakeholders in the engagement process in order to draw up the best solution for the country's economic challenges.

“This was a decision by the PM (Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad).

“But I'm confident that in the process of engagement to obtain input and feedback, we will engage with many stakeholders including the youth and the business communities.

“We need all input,” he said on Tuesday (Feb 12).

When asked if the findings of the EAC would be revealed to Anwar, who was also a finance minister formerly, Azmin said, “All will be involved in the discussion”.

He also believed that the EAC is well represented by credible personalities who are experts in their fields.

“They have wide experience in many areas and they will continue to engage with stakeholders so we can formulate and draw up immediate and long-term strategies to resolve some of the compelling issues,” he said.

Azmin added that Dr Mahathir had asked for the council to hold its first meeting as soon as possible.

On Monday (Feb 11), Dr Mahathir announced the formation of the 16-member EAC comprising himself, ministers and business leaders.

The council will examine and decide on economic and financial affairs and welfare of the people.

The heading of this story has been amended to better reflect Azmin’s statements.