Selangor Menteri Besar Abdul Khalid Ibrahim today announced that the assets of the state’s 10 executive councillors will be made public on Friday.

In a statement issued today, Abdul Khalid said the information will be available for public viewing on the state’s official website.

Assets to be declared will include property, stocks and the amount of cash spent on official duties from March 24 last year - the date state assemblypersons were sworn in - up until now.

khalid ibrahim low siew moi othman omar new pkns selangor chief khalid ibrahim pc 231208 03"The objective of the asset declaration is to ensure that those holding high-level posts in the state government don’t abuse their positions to acquire assets, either in monetary or any other form.

"This declaration will render it possible for the state assembly to make fair decisions and not be seen to be lopsided while safeguarding the credibility of the state government," read the statement.

Abdul Khalid, however, said assets obtained before the takeover of power last year will not be made public.

"After seeking legal advice, the state decided that it is best not to include assets owned by exco members prior to holding office.

"This is because the state is unable to provide security for the excos and their family members; and neither is there any insurance policy that can be obtained to address this concern.

Khalid added that state assemblypersons had already provided the necessary information to the menteri besar’s office and this information can be disclosed for verification.

"(The disclosure) will however be governed by the conditions set and pending approval of the Special Committee on Efficiency, Responsibility and Transparency or Selcat," he said.

Ramon: Better to reveal all

In an immediate response, Transparency International president Ramon Navaratnam lauded the move by the Selangor government.

He said that the real purpose of assets declaration is to make sure there is no abuse of power by those holding public office.

According to Ramon, while it is understandable for cabinet members to only reveal assets they have acquired after they are elected into office, it would be better for them to declare all their assets.

“Ideally those who serve the public should be transparent and declare all their assets before and after taking office.”

Nevertheless, he said the concern expressed by the excos and their family members regarding their safety if they reveal all their assets is understandable.

Ramon also stressed it is important for spouses and children of public officials to also declare their assets, otherwise there would be a loophole in the policy.