SEGAMBUT MP Hannah Yeoh’s appointment as Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) has drawn attention, with experts stressing that it should be evaluated on the basis of professional experience and governance credentials rather than racial perceptions or political narratives.
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) Kuala Lumpur Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities Director Associate Professor Dr Mazlan Ali said from an academic and governance perspective, Hannah is a highly suitable candidate.
He noted her extensive administrative experience, including her historic role as the first female Speaker of the Selangor State Legislative Assembly.
“In terms of performance record, Hannah is an outstanding figure. Even former Minister of International Trade and Industry, Tan Sri Rafidah Aziz, had acknowledged her capabilities,” he told Bernama.
Dr Mazlan added that Hannah’s position as Member of Parliament for Segambut, located within the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur, aligns naturally with the portfolio she now holds.
He highlighted that her political background rooted in Kuala Lumpur enables her to understand first-hand the issues facing urban residents, including cost of living, housing, street vendors, and urban infrastructure challenges.
“She is known as a representative who assists the underprivileged regardless of ethnicity, including street vendors and the Malay community. This demonstrates her inclusive, service-oriented approach,” he said.
Addressing concerns raised by some quarters regarding the racial background of the minister, Dr Mazlan emphasised that such issues are largely perception-based and politically charged.
“The fact is, a Federal Territories Minister cannot make policy decisions unilaterally. All decisions are deliberated and finalised at Cabinet level, with the Prime Minister as the ultimate authority,” he said. He added that fears the appointment might disadvantage any particular community are unfounded and do not reflect the structure of Malaysia’s administrative system.
Am Amar Izzuden Hamidun, Deputy Chairman of Gerakan Belia 4B (M) Federal Territories, also welcomed the appointment, describing it as advantageous in terms of understanding local issues and ensuring effective policy implementation.
“Young people today evaluate leadership based on ability, integrity, and concern for citizens’ welfare, not ethnic background,” he said. He expressed hope for progressive, inclusive policies under Hannah’s leadership, particularly in areas such as employment opportunities, entrepreneurship, affordable housing, and youth human capital development in urban areas. - December 19, 2025
