PETALING JAYA: Former Council of Eminent Persons (CEP) chairman Tun Daim Zainuddin plays a consultative role in government as he is knowledgeable in business and politics, says Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.
"Well, he is consulted. People need advisers, people who have certain knowledge.
"He is a man who is knowledgeable about business, as well as politics. He has got a lot of experience," Dr Mahathir said to a question on whether Daim held too much power in government despite not having any official position, during an interview with BFM's the Breakfast Grille on Tuesday (Sept 17) morning.
"When we are borrowing money, paying debts and all that, his expertise in that area is useful.
"On the other hand, he has also moved around and has met a lot of people in the country and outside the country. So he would be a good judge of the quality of people we employ," the Prime Minister said.
Dr Mahathir also addressed rumours that appointments within the government needed Daim's approval.
He said if Daim had objections, he "must give reasons for it".
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