Fahmi appointed as govt spokesman

Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil has been appointed as spokesman for the government to handle the media.

Fahmi, who confirmed this today, said Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim had issued a directive at the Cabinet meeting two weeks ago that he and his ministry should act as the representative or spokesman for the government, especially in dealing with the media.

Fahmi said the media conference after the Cabinet meeting every Wednesday would be handled by him if the prime minister was unable to attend.

"Any week, for example, that the prime minister is unable to host the weekly media conference, the communications and digital ministry and I will handle it," he told reporters in Putrajaya.

Fahmi said that as the government spokesman, the media could refer to him for confirmation of any issues that need to be verified.
 
"This is to ensure that the issues are referred to the right ministry or minister for feedback," he said.

Fahmi said his ministry would also discuss with the broadcast stations the provision of detailed and comprehensive information regarding government activities expected to be aired in the news slot next week.

"Information is presented by the ministries and agencies but there is no emphasis on the effectiveness of its delivery," he said.

Fahmi said earlier in his speech that communications and digital ministry agencies such as the information department, Bernama and Radio Televisyen Malaysia must help the government explain the concept of Madani to the public.

"Its essence is more than just a slogan, it is the intention of the government," he said, adding that it was important for his ministry to study, interpret and refine the meaning of Madani for the benefit of the people.

On the appointment of Nurul Izzah Anwar as the prime minister’s senior economic and financial adviser, Fahmi said the government under the leadership of Anwar had also appointed several other individuals as advisers, including Mohd Hassan Marican.

"The term 'adviser' is clear, because they will not touch on policy matters, have no source of authority including to call for meetings, and are not paid any salary," he said.