KUALA LUMPUR: The purported WhatsApp conversation between Datuk Takiyuddin Hassan and Finance Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz which had become viral was taken out of context to malign the minister from Pas, said Takiyuddin's political Secretary Wan Rohimi Wan Daud.
He said Takiyuddin, who is minister in the Prime Minister's Department in charge of law and parliament, was tasked by the PM himself to coordinate and strengthen ties between the federal government and the Kedah state government.
Wan Rohimi said Takiyuddin was also made facilitator to resolve issues particularly those involving development projects by the agencies.
These coordinating powers, he said, were given to him by the prime minister on Sept 1.
"The screen grab of the WhatsApp conversation was deliberately taken out of context and had became viral to create a negative perception of those involved," he said in a statement here today.
He said Takiyuddin was the facilitator in channeling welfare aid from the state government to the state, also serving as co-chair in matters related to disasters, working alongside the Menteri Besar.
In addition, he said Takiyuddin would also be required to carry out duties related to the state and federal corporation as per the prime minister's orders from time to time.
The viral screen grab is related to an alleged direct-negotation of the water treatment plant project between Takiyuddin and Tengku Zafrul.
It is claimed to be related to a contract to privatise the operations management and maintenance of water supplies in Langkawi.
The conversation is also believed to entail the involvement of the state-owned Bina Darulaman Berhad with a proposal to draw in Taliworks Corporation as a partner.
Wan Rohimi also enclosed the MB's explanation on the situation, with his statement.