SHAH ALAM - The absence of Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli from the recent economic direction meeting with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is not a matter of concern, according to former health minister Khairy Jamaluddin.
Khairy stated that despite Rafizi holding the highest position in the ministry, it was not mandatory for him to attend all discussions.
He clarified that the meeting was still attended by the ministry's chief secretary, Datuk Nor Azmie Diron.
"Anwar and Rafizi have other times to change their views which was in the Cabinet meeting and the Economic Action Meeting,” he said in the Keluar Sekejap Programme on Wednesday.
The programme was jointly organised by Khairy and former Umno information chief Shahril Hamdan.
Anwar recently held a discussion on the nation's economic direction, which was attended by Titiwangsa MP Datuk Seri Johari Ghani and other economic experts.
The absence of Rafizi and Khairy's presence in the meeting sparked speculation among the public.
However, Khairy denied any political motives associated with his attendance in the program.
He clarified that the discussion primarily focused on issues related to the nation's economy.
"I was present in my capacity as a former health minister and as someone who thinks about national matters. It was a service to the nation," he explained.
Khairy commended Anwar for his openness to suggestions during the meeting.