MELAKA: The deputy chairman of the Melaka rural development, agriculture and food security committee is ready to continue carrying out his duties by implementing programmes that were previously planned, following the announcement of the resignation of committee chairman Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh.
Low Chee Leong said initiatives planned together with Dr Muhamad Akmal would continue to be implemented as scheduled.
"We had a close working relationship and I will continue with whatever programmes that were planned,” he said in an interview here Saturday (Jan 17).
The Kota Laksamana assemblyman added that it was up to Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh to decide on the leadership of the portfolio should Dr Muhamad Akmal formally step down.
"I will leave it to the Chief Minister to decide whether I will continue to helm the portfolio as deputy if Dr Muhamad Akmal steps down,” he said.
Low described the portfolio as a crucial one for the state, particularly in strengthening agro-based and agricultural industries.
He said Ab Rauf had also provided guidance and advice on developing these sectors to ensure benefits reached the intended target groups, especially those in rural areas.
"The Chief Minister has been receptive to proposals tabled, as long as they benefit farmers and livestock breeders,” he said.
Low also said he hoped to propose a working overseas visit to study millet farming and production, after the Hari Raya Aidilfitri festive season.
"All of us in the state government have maintained a cordial working relationship, and I will continue my duties as normal if there is no reshuffle in the portfolio,” he added.
On Jan 15, Dr Muhamad Akmal announced that he would be stepping aside from his post as a Melaka executive councillor to “fight DAP to the end”.
He made the announcement during the Umno Youth annual assembly in Kuala Lumpur.
His resignation as rural development, agriculture and food security committee chairman is expected to take effect next week, with Dr Muhamad Akmal scheduled to tender his resignation on Monday (Jan 19).
On the same day, Ab Rauf said he respected Dr Muhamad Akmal’s decision to resign from the state government but would wait for an official letter before deciding whether to accept it.
