Malay groups call for GLCs to be run by professionals and technocrats

(FMT) – Several Malay groups have called on Putrajaya to let government-linked companies (GLCs) to be helmed by professionals and technocrats.

This follows reports that Perikatan Nasional MPs not given posts as ministers or deputy ministers would be made heads of GLCs.

In a joint statement, the Malay groups said these agencies should not be utilised for political gain, adding that the responsibility of a chairman was not just to monitor but maintain the performance of any GLC.

They added that professionals and technocrats appointed must show high integrity and understand that the agency’s function is to serve the people.

“Politicians are better off holding political positions and leaving corporate positions to the professionals or technocrats.

“The individual chosen must have the credibility, experience, qualification, trustworthy attitude and an excellent record in that particular field.”

The groups said past incidents of politicians heading GLCs led to companies like Felcra, Mara and Tabung Haji suffering major losses and needing to be bailed out by the government.

They called on the government to learn from past experiences, highlighting that some of those who were leading GLCs previously are currently facing accusations of breach of trust.

“GLCs must be managed by those capable of protecting the interests of the Malay people and Malaysians as a whole,” they added.

The statement was signed by Gabungan Pertubuhan-Pertubuhan Islam Bukan Kerajaan (Accin), Pertubuhan-Pertubuhan Pembela Islam (Pembela), Majlis Perundingan Pertubuhan Islam Malaysia (Mapim), Majlis Tindakan Ekonomi Melayu Bersatu (Mtem), Dewan Perniagaan Melayu Malaysia (DPMM) and Majlis Belia Malaysia (MBM).

It was reported previously that Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Takiyuddin Hassan had said all Perikatan Nasional MPs who were not appointed as ministers or deputy ministers would be made heads of GLCs.

His comments drew a backlash, with PKR president Anwar Ibrahim describing it as “a crime”.