In a written parliamentary reply, Anwar, who is also the finance minister, said 24 politicians have been appointed to 26 positions as chairmen, CEOs and board members in 21 GLCs and GLICs under MoF Inc as of September.
Among the 116 companies under MoF Inc’s belt as of Oct 24 are sovereign wealth fund 1MDB, national oil firm Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas), asset manager Permodalan Nasional Berhad, and public transport operator Prasarana Malaysia Bhd.
Anwar was asked by Rosol Wahid (PN-Hulu Terengganu) to list the politicians appointed by the government to lead GLCs and GLICs since November 2022. Anwar was sworn in as the 10th prime minister on Nov 24, 2022.
In his reply, Anwar said the appointment of chairmen, CEOs and board members under MoF Inc and in federal statutory bodies are carried out after a proper screening process.
This is to ensure that they are capable of fulfilling their roles and responsibilities effectively as outlined under the Companies Act 2016, the Development Financial Institutions Act 2002, MoF Inc and federal statutory body governance guidelines, and regulatory provisions.
“They are appointed based on their qualifications, diverse backgrounds and relevant expertise,” he said.
“These appointments take into account the specific needs and core business of the respective entities, ensuring the boards and CEOs can perform their duties efficiently and with integrity.”
He said that apart from holding a bachelor’s degree or equivalent academic and professional qualifications, those appointed must also have relevant experience in industries or fields such as accounting, finance or law.
They must also have specialised expertise and proficiency in areas such as commerce, finance, accounting, law, marketing, management, or other relevant skills.
“Emphasis is also placed on the individual’s personal values, including integrity and accountability, to ensure they fulfill their entrusted responsibilities,” he said.
Anwar said the candidates were vetted by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission, the insolvency department, the Federal Court chief registrar’s office, Bank Negara Malaysia, the police and the Inland Revenue Board.
In October, the Institute for Democracy and Economic Affairs (IDEAS) said Anwar’s government made 95 political appointments to various state-owned enterprises, fewer than many of his predecessors.
In July, Anwar revealed that the government made a total of 117 political appointments to various federal statutory bodies and companies under MoF Inc.