SHAH ALAM – The portfolios for the 10-member executive council in Selangor is expected to be finalised after a meeting with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari is scheduled to meet with Anwar later tonight to finalise the allocation of responsibilities for the state’s executive councillors.
Although all 10 exco members were officially sworn in yesterday, Amirudin has indicated that their specific portfolios shall be unveiled only on Wednesday, following their first meeting.
Speaking at a press conference today, he explained that certain portfolios will undergo name changes to streamline administrative processes between the federal and state governments, particularly with regard to addressing issues such as the cost of living and climate change.
Amirudin emphasised this was needed to ensure effective coordination with the federal government in managing the state.
Aside from the menteri besar himself, the Selangor executive council comprises four representatives from DAP, three from PKR, two from Amanah, and one from Umno.
Amirudin also revealed that the selection of the next state assembly speaker will take place during the assembly’s session next month, which is scheduled after Malaysia Day on September 16.
The previous speaker, DAP’s Ng Suee Lim (the assemblyman for Sekinchan), has now been appointed as an exco.
A previous agreement saw DAP give up its seat in Dusun Tua to allow Umno to contest in the state polls, with the understanding that its former Banting assemblyman, Lau Weng San, would assume the role of speaker for the upcoming term.
Meanwhile, PKR’s Sentosa assemblyman Gunaraj George urged all party members and supporters to accept the appointment of the excos with optimism and unity.
In a statement today, Gunaraj, who was overlooked for an exco position, emphasised the importance of coalition unity above everything else.
He said PH’s foundation rests in collaboration, inclusivity, and shared goals, and called for all to focus on these values, particularly in moments of divergence or uncertainty.
Gunaraj said party members and supporters need to redirect their energy towards understanding, reconciliation, and collaborative efforts, underscoring that this was a time for unity within PH.
While acknowledging the significance of positions in politics, he emphasised that the primary duty was to serve the people.
Looking ahead, Gunaraj expressed eagerness to collaborate with the newly appointed exco member from DAP, V. Papparaidu, in addressing issues concerning the Indian community in Selangor. – The Vibes, August 22, 2023
