Nurulhidayah's UPM appointment reflects nepotism, cronyism: Group

Summary

• Mandiri denounces the appointment of Ahmad Zahid Hamidi’s daughter to the Universiti Putra Malaysia board, calling it nepotism.

• The group argues the decision undermines the government’s commitment to meritocracy and good governance.

• Mandiri urges that public institution appointments be transparent, merit-based, and free from political influence.

Independent youth group Mandiri has condemned the recent appointment of Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi’s daughter, Nurulhidayah, to Universiti Putra Malaysia’s (UPM) board of directors, calling it a blatant example of nepotism and cronyism.

Group director Wong Kueng Hui emphasised that the appointment contradicts the reform principles promoted by the Madani government.

“This decision raises serious questions about the government’s commitment to upholding the principles of meritocracy and good governance.

“If nepotism and cronyism are allowed to persist, they will undermine efforts for renewal and further erode public confidence in the government,” he warned.

He also pointed out that such decisions only reinforce the perception that reform promises are nothing more than rhetoric, lacking tangible implementation.

The appointment was revealed through a letter allegedly signed by Higher Education Minister Zambry Abd Kadir stating that her inclusion on the board was in line with the university’s constitution, citing her “knowledgeable and experienced composition.”

The move has drawn significant criticism, including from graphic artist Fahmi Reza, who produced a satirical “resumé” for Nurulhidayah, and Gerakan president Dominic Lau, who described it as evidence of Pakatan Harapan’s hypocrisy.

In her defence, Nurulhidayah stressed that she is an active alumnus and thus qualified for the role.

Wong further commented that appointments to key positions in public institutions must be transparent, based on merit, qualifications, and experience, as well as free from political influence.

“The government is responsible for proving its commitment to the promised reforms.

“Do not allow decisions like this to undermine public trust in the integrity of decision-making processes within public administration and betray the people's hopes for a better change,” he concluded.

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