Think Tank Ideas Thinks Appointing Nurul Izzah Bad Idea

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The Institute for Democracy and Economic Affairs (Ideas) is the latest to lend its voice to the chorus of disagreement on Nurul Izzah Anwar’s appointment as a senior economics and financial adviser to the prime minister.
The think-tank said while she is qualified for the role based on her educational background and past political experience, there is, however, the impression that the former MP was appointed because she is Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s daughter.
“Nurul Izzah is highly competent and qualified, given her three terms as a Member of Parliament and she possesses a Master’s (degree) in public policy from an esteemed university abroad.
“The appointment done in this manner is counterproductive and can easily lead to questions regarding nepotism and conflict of interest and even other public policy decisions that will be consequently made by this administration.
“It may also set a precedent for other similar appointments of family members, which may further jeopardise the administration’s reputation,” Ideas said in a statement this afternoon.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Nurul IzzahCalling for the government to be more transparent in the appointment of advisers, it emphasised that the mixed reaction was not surprising, considering that Pakatan Harapan had always fought for good governance. 
“Ideas hopes that while problematic, this appointment will ultimately serve the interests of the rakyat and that Nurul Izzah will work alongside the relevant ministries to achieve reforms that the country so urgently needs. 
“Including addressing structural economic issues that have long plagued the nation, such as on the challenges of social protection, fiscal balance, tax reforms and industrial competitiveness,” it added.
Anwar has defended his daughter’s appointment on a pro bono basis against charges of nepotism.
Responding to those who questioned her qualification, the prime minister, who also oversees the financial portfolio, noted that he is a graduate of Malay studies and was not trained in fiscal matters. 
“Ministers from PAS and Bersatu did not have qualifications in their respective (ministries) either. Is it true that a health minister must be a doctor or that a water minister must be an engineer?” Anwar asked.
Yesterday, Anwar said Nurul Izzah was appointed to ensure that contracts and tenders are managed in an “orderly” manner.
In the last general election, Nurul Izzah suffered a shock defeat when she failed to retain the Permatang Pauh parliament seat in Penang, which has been her family’s stronghold for decades. - Mkini

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