PASIR Salak MP Datuk Seri Tajuddin Abdul Rahman said that he will accept any decision made by the Government regarding his appointment as Malaysian ambassador to Indonesia amid speculations that he might be dropped.
According to an Utusan Malaysia report Tajuddin said that he has met with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob on the matter, although he declined to reveal further details.
“I have met the prime minister [and] I have an idea (on the Government’s decision). In any case, I cannot reveal what was discussed with the prime minister because I do not want to pre-empt him,” he was quoted as saying by the Malay daily.
“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 notably missing from the list of envoys who received their diplomatic credentials from the Yang di-Pertuan Agong in a ceremony on Tuesday (July 12) despite confirming his appointment in June.
Speculations are rife that Putrajaya has decided to withdraw the nomination of the controversial politician, who was most recently removed as an UMNO Supreme Council member.
In response to critics who called him undeserving of the position, Tajuddin pointed out that these were simply attempts by certain quarters to sully his reputation.
“They create stories with ill-intention. They are envious. Do they think I do not have any capability, qualification and experience?” he was quoted as saying.
“(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.”
The post of ambassador to Indonesia has remained vacant since Datuk Zainal Abidin Bakar, who was appointed on March 21, 2019, retired on April 4, 2021. – July 15, 2022
