Muar MP wonders how rakyat will benefit from a new deputy minister
Former youth and sports minister Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman today questioned how the public would benefit from Perikatan Nasional's decision to appoint a new deputy minister of tourism, arts and culture.
In a statement, Syed Saddiq noted that the appointment of Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku Rakyat Sabah (Star) secretary-general Guan Dee Koh Hoi came at a time when the government claimed it was running low on funds and that the tourism industry...
Former youth and sports minister Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman today questioned how the public would benefit from Perikatan Nasional's decision to appoint a new deputy minister of tourism, arts and culture.
Syed Saddiq noted that the appointment of Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku Rakyat Sabah (Star) secretary-general Guan Dee Koh Hoi came at a time when the government claimed it was running low on funds and that the tourism industry was unlikely to be revived soon.
This led the Muar MP to conclude that Guan Dee's appointment had more to do with politics rather than the public's well-being.
"For political matters, there are no restrictions. One can have meetings across the country, hold political roadshows and suspend Parliament.
"Now, the government has appointed another deputy tourism minister... people cannot travel. I wonder how a deputy minister of tourism can help the public who are suffering.
"For the ordinary folks, they face a lot of problems and obstacles," he said in a statement.
In September last year, Star president Jeffrey Kitingan vacated the position as federal deputy tourism minister after being appointed Sabah deputy chief minister. His portfolio is now agriculture and fisheries.
According to Syed Saddiq, the government appeared to be better at fulfilling political obligations rather than keeping its promises, such as the free laptop and e-wallet schemes for needy students promised during Budget 2021.
He added that ministers and their deputies continue to enjoy a stable income, but the people are not so fortunate.
"People are losing jobs, their business, their cars and houses," he said.
In an immediate response to Syed Saddiq, a Bersatu supreme council member claimed that Guan Dee's appointment did not involve any extra cost to the government.
Mohd Farid Zawawi said that Guan Dee was sworn in to fill an existing spot that was made vacant by Kitingan.
"The appointment of Guan Dee is not an additional appointment. But it is to replace Kitingan who resigned after he was appointed as Sabah deputy chief minister.
"Syed Saddiq has to be more careful. Do not speak without checking the full story. His allegation is totally wrong as this replacement does not involve any new costs.
"This appointment is also a recognition to Sabah and its people," Farid said in a statement.
Are you sure you want to delete this comment?
This action cannot be undone.