KUALA LUMPUR, June 4 — BERJASA has criticised the treatment of PKR MP Wong Chen, describing the recent revocation of his MyKhas system access and subsequent removal as chairman of Malaysia Debt Ventures (MDV) as evidence of what it called a broader problem of political immaturity within the ruling coalition.
In a statement today, BERJASA vice-president Afif Badhrulhisham said the episode raises concerns about governance practices within PKR and Pakatan Harapan (PH), particularly regarding the management of internal dissent.
“The treatment of Wong Chen is not merely an internal party matter. It reflects a governing culture that appears to prioritise factional loyalty over institutional integrity,” he said.
Removal Raises Questions on Accountability
Afif said Wong Chen’s removal from MDV came without any public misconduct allegations.
He argued that the absence of a clear explanation for the decision undermines the principles of transparency and accountability that PH had championed before forming the federal government.
MDV, an agency involved in financing technology companies and startups, manages a loan portfolio exceeding RM2 billion.
“The chairmanship is not a ceremonial position. Removing a sitting MP from such a role without transparent justification raises legitimate questions about accountability and governance,” he said.
Contradiction to Reform Agenda, Says BERJASA
According to Afif, the incident appears inconsistent with the reform agenda promoted by the Unity Government under Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
He pointed out that PH campaigned in the 2022 general election on promises of institutional reform and governance guided by the Madani framework, which emphasises integrity, sustainability and responsible administration.
Such actions risk creating the perception that political loyalty is valued above competence, he argued.
Afif added that such perceptions could undermine confidence in the government’s commitment to institutional reform.
Concerns Over Political Appointments
The BERJASA leader also questioned the implications of the episode for appointments to government-linked companies, statutory bodies and public institutions.
He urged public agencies to adopt merit-based appointments guided by clear procedures.
“Taxpayer-funded institutions require transparent and properly managed leadership transitions.” he stressed.
He said stakeholders would expect appointments and removals to be conducted fairly and consistently.
Call for Greater Political Maturity
Citing a 2023 survey by Merdeka Center, Afif said Malaysians increasingly expect elected representatives to demonstrate political maturity and good governance.
He contended that episodes involving internal political disputes risk eroding public confidence in political institutions if not managed transparently.
“Malaysia’s democratic institutions require leaders who are accountable to the public rather than to factional interests,” he said.
BERJASA Positions Itself as Alternative
Afif said the country’s political culture remains affected by practices of patronage and political retribution that have persisted across successive administrations.
He argued that meaningful political reform would require a shift towards leadership based on professional competence and integrity.
“BERJASA believes Malaysia needs a genuine reset in political culture and governance. The party seeks to offer an alternative founded on integrity and public accountability,” he said.
While describing the Wong Chen episode as damaging to PH’s credibility, Afif said it should also serve as a broader reminder of the importance of institutional independence and transparent governance practices.
