The Institute for Democracy and Economic Affairs (IDEAS) said there were 234 such appointments made from August 2021 to last month. Of that number, 119 were new entries while 115 were retained from the previous administration led by Muhyiddin Yassin.
“These are some measurable indicators of the possible political compromises made to accommodate the various parties’ interests within a coalition and to maintain political stability at the federal government level,” said IDEAS CEO Tricia Yeoh.
“Having too many political figures within FSBs as the nation transitions and recovers from the devastating Covid-19 period brings into question the due diligence aspect of these appointment processes.”
Umno dominated the number of politicians retained in FSBs with 52 appointments, while Bersatu had 28 appointments and PAS 11.
More than half of the new appointments were from Umno (61), followed by Bersatu (19), Parti Bangsa Malaysia (15), PAS (seven) and MCA (five).
Of the 133 FSBs, 72 (54%) were directly affected by the appointments and involved 22 out of 27 ministries (81%) under Ismail’s tenure.
The ministries with the most political appointments were higher education (10), transport, rural development, and agriculture and food industries (eight each) and plantation industries and commodities (seven).
The Co-operative Institute of Malaysia (IKM) saw the largest number of appointments on its board of directors with 10 recognisable politicians, said IDEAS.
The think tank’s research also found that 56 FSBs are highly susceptible to political influence as their chairmen are clearly affiliated with political parties, or are either former MPs, assemblymen or senators.
“The issue of political appointments has already resurfaced due to public concerns over the dissolution of Parliament and the absence of a formal government,” said Yeoh.
“Given what this research reveals, it is imperative that all political parties pledge to minimise political appointments as part of their election manifestos.
“The post-election landscape must see a reduction of unnecessary political appointments, especially if we are to see better governed businesses.”