Former tourism minister and MCA vice-president Dr Ng Yen Yen was reported by The Sun today to have apparently appointed herself as the new Malaysian Tourism Promotion Board (MTPB) chairperson.

Ng is expected to report for duty on Monday, the daily reported, citing sources that she may have appointed herself as chairperson prior to the May 5 general election, after it became known that she would not be fielded.

"However, when news of her appointment was leaked, she was subjected to criticism and ridicule in blogs. She subsequently rescinded the appointment by revoking the letter," an MTPB officer quoted by the daily said.

NONEThe newspaper noted that principally, it is morally and ethically wrong for a minister to appoint herself. Ng is expected to replace Tourism Ministry secretary-general Victor Wee (right), whose tenure ended on May 5.

In addition, Ng's move may seem to defy party orders when the MCA had decided in the 2011 and 2012 annual general meetings, that its members would reject all government posts if the party performed badly in the 13th general election.

Like the party's possible disciplinary action against Pulai Sebatang assemblyperson Tee Siew Kiong, for defying party orders in accepting a Johor exco position, Ng's move may further raise eyebrows as well.

Malaysiakini is trying to obtain comments from Ng regarding the matter. The Sun had also tried to contact MCA president Dr Chua Soi Lek and Tourism Minister Nazri Abdul Aziz.

Nazri is said to be in New Zealand with the ministry's director-general Mirza Mohammad Taiyab Beg, whereas Chua could not be contacted.

Meanwhile, MCA vice-president Donald Lim said Ng has explained about her new government position during the presidential council meeting held today, and denied she had appointed herself to the board.

Ng told the party she was recommended to the new post by her successor Nazri Abdul Aziz, and this received the consent of Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak, said Lim, who told the media of what transpired in the meeting.

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