‘Respect Labuan sentiment on next top LC choice'
Published on: Mon, Jul 28, 2025
By: Sohan Das Text Size: 'If this first choice is not available and if someone from outside is appointed he or she should be made to pledge full-time and take up residence on the island,' said activist George Elias. LABUAN: The Federal Territories Ministry should respect popular local sentiments and ensure that the vacant position of Chairman of Labuan Corporation is filled by a local as the past . 'Breaking this tradition will not go down well as a local will be more committed to serve the island and leave a legacy than an outsider who may hardly be around based on past experience. 'If this first choice is not available and if someone from outside is appointed he or she should be made to pledge full-time and take up residence on the island,' said activist George Elias. George was commenting on the response of FT Minister in the PM's Department (Federal Territories) Datuk Seri Zaliha Mustafa to Beaufort Member of Parliament Datuk Siti Aminah Aching. Siti Aminah had asked in the on-going session of parliament on the delay in the appointment of a Chairman and whether the residency status of a candidate was an issue. The post was last held by Tan Sri Anifah Aman from Sabah who was appointed to the office on a two-year term effective June 19 2023. In March he was also appointed Labuan Senator. His contributions to Labuan as chairman were questioned by some as more was expected of him as the post offered a good emolument and various perks. Anifah's appointment also sparked controversy with many quarters voicing concerns. Allegations emerged over his absence on the island, involvement in programmes and the Chinese Chamber of Commerce spoke of difficulty in meeting him. George hoped this would serve as a lesson and guidance in making a decision. Labuan folks do not want a let-down second time.' The Minister had said several candidates had been identified for the post and it was in the final phase of selection. She added that the post was important as the chairman played a key role in the strategic development developments (Hala Tuju) of the island and must have commitment to serve and address issues. She said as the person selected would be announced soon. Prior to Anifah all previous chairman of the post since 2001 had been local leaders and among them were Datuk Suhaili Abdul Rahman (three terms) Datuk Rozman Isli, Datuk Bashir Alias and Datuk Amir Hussien. The minister said the residential qualification of the Chairman was not an issue as anyone from Sabah or else where could be selected based on merit. In the meantime the term of the seven-member Advisory Council has also expired. The councillors were Datuk Bashir Alias, Datuk Wong Kii Yii, Puan Noriha Yakup, Hajah Niswati Tarji, Seah Kiat Leong ,Tan So Kiat and Andy Herrdiwardy @ Harris. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
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