Malaysia government terminates services of 3,252 political appointees

Datuk Liew Vui Keong, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department, revealed the government has terminated the services of 3,252 political appointees in several agencies, The Star Online reported.

In a parliamentary written reply to Lim Kit Siang (DAP-Iskandar Puteri), Datuk Liew said the political appointees were let go off as their projects were either completed or discontinued, while 2,934 would be axed once their contract ends.

Lim had asked on the termination of political appointees by the new government.

Datuk Liew explained: "Those whose contracts were terminated were among 17,942 political appointees hired on a contract basis," adding that the contracts of of 11,394 officers hired as kindergarten teachers, drivers and administrative officers would continue.

Those affected were mostly from the Community Development Department (KEMAS), Special Affairs Department (JASA), the Cooperatives Commission, and the implementation and monitoring unit of the Prime Minister’s Department, he said.

In the written reply, Datuk Liew elaborated: "The placements of 277 officers are being considered by their new agencies, while another 85 will be given other placements."

Those whose contracts have been terminated earlier than the stipulated agreement have been given a month’s notice or wages in accordance with government rules.

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