Khalid set to stay on as Selangor mentri besar

(The Star) – Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim looks set to stay on as Selangor mentri besar for a second term with DAP and PAS leaders expressing their support for him.

In expressing his support for Khalid, DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng said he had performed well in his first term as mentri besar and as Selangor election director in the recently concluded general election.

“Khalid should continue as mentri besar after leading Pakatan to a resounding victory in the recent elections by winning a two-thirds majority with 44 out of 56 state seats, up from 36 seats previously.

“Although DAP won 15 seats, PAS 15 and PKR 14, Khalid should be recognised for his integrity and stewardship of Selangor.

“Selangor DAP is also in full support of Khalid,” he said in a statement here yesterday.

PAS secretary-general Datuk Mustafa Ali also backed Khalid to remain as mentri besar.

“PAS never asked for the position and we have no intention of doing so. We have decided to maintain (Khalid). Wait for the announcement in a week’s time,” he told a Malay daily.

Former DAP state exco member Ronnie Liu, who worked alongside Khalid for five years, gave a glowing review of his performance as mentri besar.

“He is very clean, honest and professional. And he is very clear with managing public funds,” said Liu, who did not contest in the May 5 polls.

“He has his own views but he never imposes them on others. Should Khalid remain as mentri besar? Certainly. He has my undivided support,” said Liu.

Bukit Tunku assemblyman Lau Weng San also said that Khalid should continue to lead the state government.

Describing Khalid as “stern and steady”, Lau said the former corporate giant had handled crises in a professional manner.

“And he is also very strict. If you want to persuade him to change his mind, you need to talk to him with facts and figures,” he said.