KUALA LUMPUR: The appointment of DAP chairman Tan Kok Wai as the new Special Envoy to China does not contradict Pakatan Harapan’s no-political appointee policy.
The party’s national organising secretary Anthony Loke said that Tan was appointed as a government representative to strengthen bilateral relations between Putrajaya and Beijing.
He said that Tan’s appointment is hoped to play a role in strengthening both nations’ economic ties through trade and investment via the Malaysia-China Business Council (MCBC).
Loke, who is also Transport Minister, said Tan’s appointment was also decided by Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.
“We (PH) have always adhered to the promise that no political person will be appointed to lead any GLC (government-linked company).
“He (Tan) is a government representative and the Prime Minister is confident in him being an ambassador. MCBC is not a GLC,” he said when met by the media at the Dewan Rakyat lobby today.
Meanwhile at the same lobby, Tan refused to elaborate on his appointment which takes effect on Aug 1.
However, he confirmed his direct appointment as Special Ambassador since he is MCBC chairman.
Tan replaced former MCA president Tan Sri Ong Ka Ting, who used to be the Prime Minister’s Special Envoy to China under the previous Barisan National administration.