SHAH ALAM - The Centre to Combat Corruption and Cronyism (C4) urges the government to immediately stop the appointment of politicians to government-linked companies (GLCs) and government-linked investment companies (GLICs).
C4 in a press release said that the number of political appointments in the government had become increasingly concerning, despite claims that these appointments go through a stringent screening process.
"The appointment of the daughter of former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak, Nooryana Najwa, as one of the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) Board of Directors has raised questions about the validity of the screening process.
"Without assessing character and skills, would Nooryana Najwa have been able to obtain this position if not for her familial connection?
"If there were no such connection, how relevant is her party affiliation (as Nooryana Najwa holds a position in Umno) in considering her for this role?" the statement read.
Previously, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said that the appointment of certain politicians to GLC boards was based on qualifications and professional credentials.
He said that the selection of individuals for these positions also underwent a process and review by various agencies, including the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), the police and the Inland Revenue Board (IRB) to ensure a clean record.
Further commenting, C4 emphasised that although the screening process is stringent, political influence remains prevalent.
At the same time, they questioned the government's apparent desperation to defend the positions of politicians within GLCs.
"Is it so difficult to find other qualified individuals for these positions through a merit-based system?" they asked.
C4 clarified that the standards of public accountability for GLCs are higher because they were direct recipients of public funds and some were established to benefit the public.
In this regard, C4 stated that it was reasonable to question decisions made, whether they were made in the interest of political parties or coalitions throughout their careers.