Perak MB limits duties of exco member probed over alleged rape
The Perak exco being investigated for alleged rape has had the scope of his duties limited, according to state Menteri Besar Ahmad Faizal Azumu.
Faizal said that while Paul Yong – who oversees housing, local government, public transportation, non-Muslims affairs and new villages – has not been suspended, he has been asked not to participate in meetings where decisions need to be made...
The Perak exco being investigated for alleged rape has had the scope of his duties limited, according to state Menteri Besar Ahmad Faizal Azumu.
Faizal said that while Paul Yong – who oversees housing, local government, public transportation, non-Muslims affairs and new villages – has not been suspended, he has been asked not to participate in meetings where decisions need to be made.
"It's been limited. I agree (with it). We do not want him to interfere in the investigation process.
"For the purpose of meetings, such as those held by the executive council or housing board which involves the power to make decisions, perhaps we postpone them first.
"He does not need to attend," he told journalists at the Parliament lobby today.
Faizal was in Kuala Lumpur for a Pardons Board meeting with Perak ruler Sultan Nazrin Shah.
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Explaining the decision not to suspend Yong, he said no criminal charges have been brought and that the investigation is still ongoing.
"He is still an exco, he can go to his office, but I've postponed the important meetings.
"I think the need to suspend only arises when a person can use their position to disrupt the justice process.
"For now, there is an investigation but no criminal charge, therefore things will go on as usual," he said.
However, Faizal said if the investigation becomes prolonged, he will advise Yong (photo) to go on leave.
"If the investigation prolongs to a long period, perhaps he can be advised to take leave."
Faizal also noted that the swearing-in of the Perak exco lineup to renew their term for a second year was postponed as it was "inappropriate" for someone being investigated to be sworn in, adding that a new date has not been decided.
The menteri besar said the next course of action will be decided if Yong is charged.
"We'll see. I will discuss this with him and also seek advice from the party leadership. I will make the right decision," he said.
Yong is accused of raping his Indonesian domestic helper and has denied wrongdoing.
He was briefly detained by police on Tuesday when he presented himself at the Jelapang police station, but has since been released on police bail.
The alleged victim has undergone medical examination and is now placed in a safe house.
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