SHAH ALAM (Oct 29, 2008) : "It is better if we give the job to someone who will rake in millions for the benefit of the Malays than to appoint a Malay who is more interested in giving out contracts to non-Malays."

Tan Sri Abdul Khalid Ibrahim

This was Mentri Besar Tan Sri Abdul Khalid Ibrahim's response to those who opposed his appointment of Low Siew Moi as acting general manager of the Selangor State Development Corporation (PKNS).

He said it was better for someone who can genuinely help the Malays to hold the position, than for a Malay who cannot deliver the benefits to the community.

"If there is a Malay manager who cannot benefit the Malays, then this is something we should view seriously," he said.

"People are angry because we changed the people, but are they not angry about the billions lost? Which is better? Think about this," he urged those who challenged the decision.

He reiterated that Low, who was due for retirement this month, was picked for her 33-year experience in the company.

He said she was aware that her appointment was temporary and that she would be there until a suitable Bumiputra candidate with proper qualifications and experience, preferably in real estate and housing development, could be found.

Pas led by Selangor commissioner Datuk Dr Hassan Ali had on Tuesday expressed the party’s displeasure over Low’s appointment and said the party will be looking for a suitable candidate to replace Low after meeting Khalid.

Low Siew Moi

Hassan said this had nothing to do with Low being a woman and a Chinese. He said there are two other deputy GMs who are also suitable for the job, and asked why they were not considered.

Former mentri besar Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Khir Toyo had also said Khalid's decision undermined the capabilities of Malays to run a company like PKNS.

Klang MP Charles Santiago, who contacted theSun, hit out at Pas, saying their action goes against their "Pas for all" slogan which promised to uphold Islamic principals of fairness and equality for all.

"Now they are making an issue out of Low’s appointment and I don’t understand why they are making an issue out of it. Is it because a Chinese is leading the company?" he asked.

"Low has been there for the last 33 years and from what I understand that she is good at her job and is a capable person to carry out this duty."

He said the lack of meritocracy and appointments based on qualifications has caused Malaysia to lag behind and lose out a lot in terms of investment and having the best minds.

Lau Weng San

Santiago said PKNS is not a religious or race-based organisation but one that is run by the state aimed at helping the citizens.

Meanwhile, raising a motion on the state planning and development policy up to 2025, Kampung Tunku state assemblyman Lau Weng San commented on the opposition towards Low’s appointment, saying there needs to be a revamp of PKNS.

"There is no point for a Malay to head the GLC if the rights of Malays are pawned off to non-Malays."

Lau said the facts show that between 2004 and 2007, 75% of all development projects were given to non-Malays, either directly or indirectly.

He said PKNS today is building bungalows for the rich instead of low cost homes for those who need it.

"We need to fix these. A state GLC should also help and benefit all people in Selangor, regardless of race," he added.