Ministry split into two to enhance efficiency

Reports by MAZWIN NIK ANIS, TARRENCE TAN, RAGANANTHINI VETHASALAM, FATIMAH ZAINAL, KHOO GEK SAN, JUNAID IBRAHIM, GERARD GIMINO, ZAKIAH KOYA, ARFA YUNUS, TEH ATHIRA YUSOF, IMRAN HILMY and REBECCA RAJAENDRAM

PUTRAJAYA: Challenges in disseminating information as well as meeting growing demands of digital transformation are why the Communications and Digital Ministry was split into two entities, explains the Prime Minister.

Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (pic) said there was a need to boost communications so that the government’s plans and programmes for the people could be explained effectively.

“I am of the view that communication with the media and social media is a challenge. The criticism against us is that while policies are impressive, their impact and the dissemination of information have not been effective or satisfactory.

“So this must be the focus of the Communications Ministry,” he told a press conference after announcing his new Cabinet line-up here yesterday.

Anwar said there was a need to have a dedicated ministry to look into digital issues and its transformation as this was a major focus of his government, adding that the digital sphere was challenging and constantly changing.

“There are new data centres emerging and artificial intelligence has to be looked into. There is also the need to enhance digital understanding and its issues among students.

“It is a challenging task and I believe this particular issue is daunting for us. That is why we have the new ministry,” he added.

After the split of the ministry, Fahmi Fadzil is the Communications Minister while Gobind Singh Deo helms the Digital Ministry.

On Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad’s return as Health Minister, Anwar said the latter’s previous experience would enable the government to meet growing public demand for healthcare services.

He said Dr Dzulkefly’s appointment would strengthen the ministry which was burdened with many issues.

“We hope that by having him on board, Dr Dzulkefly will be able to use his experience to look into the healthcare system,” said Anwar.

Dr Dzulkefly was Health Minister during Pakatan Harapan’s 22-month administration after GE14 in 2018.

Following GE15 last year, Dr Zaliha Mustafa was appointed Health Minister.

The Cabinet reshuffle saw her being moved to take charge of Federal Territories under the Prime Minister’s Department.