KOTA KINABALU, April 30 — President Shafie Apdal raised concerns regarding the appointment of special officers in government-linked companies (GLCs), which he deemed potentially burdensome to the state's finances if not managed properly.
During the debate in the Sabah State Assembly, the Assemblyman for Senallang questioned the necessity of such appointments given that most GLCs already have a complete management structure including a chief executive officer, chairman, and board of directors.
“Why are there so many special officers in GLCs? I may be mistaken if the figure of nearly 100 that I mentioned earlier is not accurate, but I want an explanation,” he said.
He also expressed concern about the financial implications if appointments are made without clear necessity.
“If it is true that special officers are appointed in these companies, I am worried that operational expenses will increase. We do not want to waste money when the economy is not healthy, just to appoint special officers for political interests,” he said.
Shafie emphasized that each appointment should be accompanied by a clear justification and should add value to the organization.
He also requested the state government to provide a detailed explanation including the actual number of special officers appointed and their functions within their respective organizations.
Meanwhile, the Assistant Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment, Joniston Bangkuai, responding on behalf of the state government, informed that the appointment of special officers may be made based on specific task requirements.
“Regarding these special officers, there may be specific tasks assigned to them. I do not have the exact number, but I believe the figure is not large,” he said.
In response to the matter, the state government agreed to submit a written answer detailing the number and roles of the special officers in question.
The issue of appointments in GLCs is expected to continue to attract attention, particularly in ensuring transparency, accountability, and prudent financial management for the benefit of the people of Sabah.
