KUANTAN: Wisma Putra does not announce names of candidates appointed as Malaysia's envoys abroad until they receive the instrument of appointment from the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Abdullah said it has been a practice by Wisma Putra not to issue any statement involving the appointments of Malaysia's envoys abroad as well as foreign diplomats selected to serve in Malaysia.
"The names will only be known when the respective individual receives the instrument of appointment from the Yang di-Pertuan Agong. If the Agong presents the letters of appointment to five new heads of missions, only then the appointments of the five individuals are official. For foreign envoys to serve in Malaysia, it will be official when the Agong receives their instruments of appointment.
"That is the reason, Wisma Putra will not issue any statement about the names of potential candidates as envoys or who will be the potential candidates... we (Wisma Putra) will not issue such statements," he said after attending the Pahang-level Malaysian Global Taekwondo Federation Championships for schools and clubs at Kuantan Parade here today.
Saifuddin, who is also the Indera Mahkota member of parliament (MP), was earlier asked about Pasir Salak MP Datuk Seri Tajuddin Abdul Rahman's status as Malaysia's ambassador to Indonesia.
The Foreign Minister declined to comment, only providing an explanation on Wisma Putra's position on the matter.
Tajuddin was not on the list of four other envoys who received their appointment letters from the Yang di-Pertuan Agong on July 12, with some claiming he was dropped.