PETALING JAYA: Two Wanita PKR leaders have been appointed to two government-linked agencies, drawing criticism over the political appointments.
Its deputy chief Juwairiya Zulkifli (pic) was appointed National Population and Family Development Board (LPPKN) deputy chairman while vice-chief Sangetha Jayakumar was appointed as a Port Klang Authority (PKA) board member.
Juwairiya said she viewed her appointment as the government’s commitment to strengthening women empowerment.
“I see my appointment as the deputy chairman of LPPKN as the government’s commitment to strengthening women empowerment in decision-making at the government level (statutory body or institutions),” she said when contacted.
Responding to those who criticised the appointments as political, Juwairiya said she has taken it as a challenge.
“I take this as a challenge to fulfil my duty and serve well,” she said.
Meanwhile, PKA chairman Ean Yong Hian Wah, when contacted, confirmed Sangetha’s appointment as a board member.
“Yes. Confirmed,” he said in a brief text message.
Sangetha had yet to respond to queries at press time.
Muda, meanwhile, criticised the move, saying that the unity government had gone against its pledge to curtail political patronage.
Muda said the unity government led by Pakatan Harapan continues to indulge in the very practice it once vehemently opposed - which is making political appointments to government-run enterprises.
“It is both disheartening and hypocritical that such actions persist, despite promises made to the Malaysian public,” it said in a statement yesterday.
It added that the country is witnessing a distressing pattern with political appointments, especially from PKR and Umno.
This has raised questions about the sincerity and integrity of the current government, it said.
“We urge the government to provide a transparent explanation to the Malaysian public regarding these appointments.
“Muda believes in a Malaysia where governance is transparent, accountable and free from the vestiges of political patronage.
“The resurgence of such practices undermines public trust and jeopardises the nation’s democratic principles,” it added.
On that note, Muda called on the government to immediately review political appointments.
