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KUALA LUMPUR – Pasir Salak MP Datuk Seri Tajuddin Abdul Rahman says he will accept any decision made by the government relating to his appointment as Malaysian ambassador to Indonesia amid speculations that he would be dropped.
Utusan Malaysia quoted the Umno lawmaker as saying that in a recent meeting with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, the latter had given an indication pertaining to the position, but stopped short of revealing more.
“More or less, I was given an impression. However, I can’t precede the prime minister. I also respect the cabinet and am loyal to His Majesty (the Yang di-Pertuan Agong).
“As to my current position, I’m not sure. I have been appointed by the cabinet (as ambassador), and I will leave it up to the government to decide the next process. I believe the government can act wisely.
“What’s important is if my service is required, I will serve for the rakyat and country. In fact, I can take this opportunity so that both nations can enjoy a cooperation that brings progress in development, economy, education and others.”
Tajuddin was previously confirmed to have been selected by the cabinet to represent Malaysia as ambassador to Indonesia, a move that has courted a lot of flak.
He was supposed to receive his appointment letter from the Agong but a recent ceremony on Tuesday saw four other envoys officially appointed, with Tajuddin being the glaring absentee.
Several media have speculated that Putrajaya has decided to withdraw the nomination of the controversial politician.
Responding to critics who described him as undeserving of the position, Tajuddin said these are merely attempts by certain quarters to tarnish his reputation.
“They create stories with ill-intention. They are envious. Do they think I do not have any capability, qualification and experience?
“(Those) criticisms from the opposition, I don’t mind. What I am disappointed in is that there are those from Umno who are the same. What’s the problem?
“But it’s okay, I won’t be discouraged. I have served for over 50 years, and I will continue to serve using my vast experience as a lawmaker, chairman of a government-linked company and deputy minister,” he was quoted as saying.
The position of ambassador to Indonesia has been vacant since Datuk Zainal Abidin Bakar, who was appointed on March 21, 2019, retired on April 4 last year. – The Vibes, July 15, 2022