Think tank CENSE co-founder Fui K Soong has praised Chief Minister Hajiji Noor for appointing a Chinese assemblyman to his Cabinet despite the community’s overwhelming support for Warisan in the November 29 polls.
She described the move as generous since Hajiji had no obligation to include Tanjong Kapor winner Ben Chong as assistant minister.
Chong secured his seat mainly with non-Chinese votes in an 11-cornered fight.
An Olive Branch to Chinese Voters
Fui said Chong’s appointment serves as an olive branch after many Chinese voters backed Warisan, which took six former DAP seats. She suggested it also sends a subtle message to SAPP, which quit GRS before the election.
The decision comes amid criticism from SAPP president Yong Teck Lee over the lack of Chinese representation.
Debate Over Cabinet Representation
Yong blamed Warisan for pushing Chinese representatives into opposition, prompting Warisan deputy president Darell Leiking to call the remark delusional.
Leiking insisted Cabinet appointments are solely the chief minister’s prerogative.
Fui drew parallels with how Sarawak’s past leaders once sidelined Chinese politicians until they returned to the ruling fold.
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