KUALA LUMPUR, May 7 — Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi today dismissed opposition criticism over a recent entertainment event in Bukit Bintang as mere politicking.
He said PAS had not done differently when it was previously part of the government and held positions of power.
“Whatever the government does, it is all deemed to be wrong by the opposition. However, when they (PAS) were part of the government and held positions of power, they did not actually perform any better than what is being done now.
“I believe we should not apply such measures or standards. In any case, the authority to appoint ministers lies with the Prime Minister (Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim),” he told reporters after officiating the National Social Policy Action Plan 2026-2030 here today.
This comes after Selangor PAS Youth chief Muhammad Hafizuddin Muhammad Zai urged Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing to be held accountable over the organisation of a music festival.
Zahid added that such political pressure should not be applied in evaluating government decisions.
When asked whether the tourism minister should resign over the issue, Zahid dismissed the suggestion, saying the matter should not be blown out of proportion.
He said the government would handle the matter in a measured and orderly manner.
“We must be more cautious, as I have already stated in my media statement. We will handle and manage this issue properly, in a good manner, not in a way that causes unnecessary tension or disruption,” he said.
Yesterday, Malaysiakini reported that Muhammad Faizzuddin claimed the programme had tarnished the country’s good name and identity, while also provoking anger among the majority of the public towards the Madani government.
“The arrogance and rudeness of the Motac minister will become a ticket to defeat and a key factor in the majority of Malaysian voters rejecting and not voting for Pakatan Harapan (PH) and Umno in the upcoming 16th General Election.” he was quoted as saying in a media statement.
