Kota Kinabalu: The appointment of Datuk James Wong as Sabah Economic Development Corporation (Sedco) Group General Manager is merit-based and in line with the SabahFirst agenda, said former Sabah Bersatu Deputy Chairman Aksyah Nasrah.
James, who is the first non-Bumiputera to hold the position since Sedco’s establishment in 1971, replaces Haizar Razif Hisyam whose contract has ended.
“The appointment has generated various reactions. The first and positive reaction comes from those who wish to see Sedco’s continuity and progress,” said Aksyah in statement, Thursday
“The second and negative reaction views his appointment as going against the Bumiputera spirit of Sabah people,” he said.
Aksyah dismisses the negative reactions as attempts by certain groups to create negative perceptions about Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor and the Sedco Chairman Datuk Rubin Balang.
“This appointment is based on merit and ability to lead and manage an excellent organisation,” Aksyah said, adding that James has an impressive background as a Kota Kinabalu native and comes from a family of high achievers.
“James’ father, Datuk Francis Wong, was instrumental in the development of Kota Kinabalu city, while his sister, Penny, is Australia’s first Asian Foreign Minister.
“James himself is the Chief Executive Officer of his own well-established architectural firm in Sabah with 50 staff and 200 field personnel,” Aksyah said.
“James has received various national awards for his contributions to architecture and business. His social contributions include serving as Sabah Branch Chairman of the Malaysia Chinese Chamber Of Commerce-Young Entrepreneurs Committee, President of Sabahan Architect-Entrepreneurs and Founding President of Sabah Young Business and Industry Leaders.
“He has also made contributions by creating various brands based on Sabahan spirit such as Uinah Sabah, MissReno and many more.
“Was he appointed without qualifications or merit? Is he less Sabahan? Has he contributed nothing to the development of Bumiputera business in Sabah? The answer is No. This appointment is truly based on merit and not political interests,” he said.
“I hope the Sedco management leadership team will be open-minded and not fall prey to emotional provocations from certain parties who like to create conflict and destroy organisations like Sedco,” said Aksyah, pointing out that there is also no provision requiring the GGM position to be exclusively held by Bumiputeras.