Government-controlled business giants are undergoing restructuring due to the economic crisis. The Star and New Straits Times are daily newspapers controlled by different political parties. One survived the crisis whereas the latter suffered badly; why?

I am of the opinion that it is due to too much political interference and the appointment of non-professionals or persons with low credibility but with high-level political connections to manage the day-to-day running of the business.

Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad's statement on separation of ownership and management in business is timely, though I feel there will still be interference from the political fellows.

As appointed caretakers, candidates must be dedicated, clean and productive, and work hard for continuous success. Everything has to be halal (kosher), in our talking, thinking and doing.

Just imagine businesses that are connected to ruling political parties being taken care of especially in times of crisis - any mismanagement on their part is easily tackled by a transfer or pay-off to other subsidiaries or the associates.