KUALA LUMPUR: Following claims of under-performance, former Tourism Promotion Board (Tourism Malaysia) director-general Datuk Ammar Abd Ghapar defended himself and said he had done nothing wrong during his tenure to lead to his demotion.
He said he was surprised to learn of his demotion, and had yet to receive an official notice on the matter.
Speaking to Mingguan Malaysia today, Ammar questioned the judgment behind his demotion to deputy director-general, as he was only given a five-day notice.
"The five-day notice terminating my services as the director-general tarnishes my image and my reputation. After serving (the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry) for 36 years, I do not deserve such treatment," he said.
Yesterday, Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing claimed that Ammar did not perform as Tourism Malaysia director-general despite being given multiple chances to do so.
Tiong alleged that Ammar went against directives in a recent board meeting, and showed no efforts to improve the country's tourism sector.
Ammar said he should have been given a chance to explain alleged wrongdoings.
"If I have done anything wrong during my tenure, the government should examine and prove all my alleged errors and give me a chance to explain them. As far as I can remember, I have never questioned or disobeyed any directives while in service,"
He added that as he had not received any official letter on his demotion, he would be going on leave.
"I have no plans as of yet, because I have not received any letter of any changes. So until I receive the letter, I might apply for leave."