"Government Urged to Stop Syed Abu Hussin's Attempts to Undermine Ministers and Confuse Public"

"Government Urged to Stop Syed Abu Hussin's Attempts to Undermine Ministers and Confuse Public"

1 Apr 2024 • 9:30 PM MYT

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A political analyst has raised concerns about the actions of Bersatu's Datuk Syed Abu Hussin Hafiz Syed Abdul Fasal, warning that his behavior could harm the credibility of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's administration.


Professor Dr. Wong Chin Huat from Sunway University emphasized that the government should not allow Syed Abu Hussin to continue undermining ministers and confusing the public.


Syed Abu Hussin's recent remarks, seemingly contradicting Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi on the rice issue, have drawn scrutiny. While Zahid downplayed reports of rice shortages, Syed Abu Hussin, as the Naccol food cluster task force chairman, expressed concern and claimed to have deployed enforcement teams to investigate shortages across the Peninsula.


However, Professor Wong questioned Syed Abu Hussin's authority to override ministers, particularly since Naccol is neither a government agency nor a statutory body. Wong argued that such statements and actions undermine ministry authority and create confusion among the public.


Wong emphasized that the issue extends beyond communication problems, highlighting the importance of professional policymaking over showmanship and egoism. He warned that if left unchecked, this situation could portray administrative incompetence and chaos, unfairly tarnishing the reputation of diligent civil servants.


Another political analyst, Associate Professor Dr. Awang Azman Awang Pawi from Universiti Malaya, echoed similar sentiments. He noted that relevant ministries and agencies already have adequate resources to monitor rice shortages, surpassing the scope of Syed Abu Hussin's efforts. Awang Azman suggested that Syed Abu Hussin should utilize proper channels to address the rice issue with the government.


Awang Azman speculated that Syed Abu Hussin's actions might stem from a desire to demonstrate usefulness to Anwar's leadership in the unity government.


However, he cautioned that Syed Abu Hussin's actions could be perceived as undermining parties within the unity government, potentially raising suspicions regardless of his intentions.


The New Straits Times is seeking comments from Syed Abu Hussin to provide further clarity on the matter.


In summary, the analysts urge the government to address Syed Abu Hussin's actions to maintain ministerial authority, public confidence, and the integrity of policymaking processes.


They emphasize the importance of professionalism and adherence to proper channels in addressing governance issues, especially within a unity government framework.