PETALING JAYA: It appears that only the wealthy can serve Malaysia, says Datuk Zaid Ibrahim in an apparent dig at Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz’s statement that he was willing to serve as ambassador to the United States without a salary.
“Now Ambassador to US don't want (sic) salary. Is it real? Looks like only the wealthy can serve this country,” the former law minister said in a tweet on Tuesday (Feb 14).
Utusan Malaysia quoted Mohamed Nazri as saying that salary is not his priority and he is ready to take on the role as the Malaysian envoy to the United States without pay.
The former tourism, arts and culture minister told the daily he was ready to serve without a salary like Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
“I accepted the role not because of money. Some (former) ambassadors said it is a loss that some candidates did not get money, perhaps the pay was quite high. I am like the Prime Minister, I don’t need this pay, I have some money,” he added.
“Perhaps they thought there are certain duties that I can carry out. That is why they decided ( to appoint me),” he said.
“If the (government) wants to give a salary we will take it. I am no longer a politician and money is not my goal," he said.
According to Mohamed Nazri, his appointment had been criticised by certain quarters because they felt it hindered career diplomats from getting the post.
He said it is also his responsibility to take up the post as he is still able to contribute for at least the next two to three years.
Mohamed Nazri explained that his appointment was free of any elements of nepotism, cronyism and favouritism.
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