PETALING JAYA, Sept 21 ― Newly appointed Election Commission (EC) chairman Azhar Harun has said today that he intends to improve the negative perception that the commision received during the course of the 14th general election.
The lawyer also known as Art Harun said he is aware of the challenges he will face, as he aims to improve the overall image and reputation of the commission.
“The challenges are there as the EC has rightly or wrongly received bad publicity over issues that arise during GE14.
“I intend to solve such issues and worked elevate the commission into a respectable institution which is impartial, efficient and fair,’’ he said.
Azhar, who is also a practising lawyer, said he is humbled by the appointment, and intends to carry out his duties according to the law and oath of office.
“I am surprised by the appointment but honoured to be entrusted which such responsibilities. I will carry out my duties according to the law and the oath of office as the EC chairman.
Azhar said his first course of action is to meet with the commission’s staff and assure that their interests are taken care of, and provide the moral support they need.
“There are other plans but at the moment I don't wish to go into details,’’ he said.
Azhar also said he intends to start “as soon as practically possible.’’
Azhar, who will turn 56 on October 26, hails from Kedah. He has a bachelor's degree and masters in law from Universiti Malaya and King's College, University of London respectively.
Azhar has 31 years of experience in the legal industry, beginning his career at the Allen & Gledhill law firm in 1987.
Since 1992, Azhar has worked as a lawyer at KH Koh, Azhar & Koh; as well as other famous law firms ― Khaw & Hussein; TH Su & Partners; Lamin & Co; Hisham Sobri & Kadir; Shafee & Co; Cheang & Ariff.
