Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has denied trying to sabotage the government after remarks he made about cancelled rural projects drew attention. Malay Mail reported on Tuesday (November 3) that he insisted his comments were factual and that he is prepared to produce official documents to back them up.
What he said
Zahid, who is also Rural and Regional Development Minister, maintained that his statements about the suspension or cancellation of Letters of Acceptance (SSTs) for the projects were accurate. A Cinca News report said he was responding to the controversy after he disclosed that rural projects in Sabah and Sarawak had been cancelled, and that he rejected claims that he was undermining the administration.
Why it matters
Letters of Acceptance are the formal step that allows contractors to proceed with approved projects, so any suspension or cancellation can affect rural infrastructure plans such as roads, water and electricity supply. The reports reviewed do not list the specific projects or explain the reasons for the cancellations, and no response from other ministries was included in the excerpts.
What to watch
Zahid said he is ready to present documents. Whether they are released publicly, and how other government leaders respond, will determine how far the issue develops. Readers should look for official clarifications from the relevant ministries.
Sources: Malay Mail - Zahid denies trying to sabotage govt | Cinca News - Zahid rebuts sabotage claim
