New PKNS head named

Selangor Menteri Besar Abdul Khalid Ibrahim today named Othman Omar as the new general manager of the Selangor Development Corporation (PKNS).

Speaking to reporters in Shah Alam, Othman dismissed the claims that his appointment was based on race.

The new general manager said he landed the job because of merits and his vast experience.

"I am not sure if that is the case (selection based on race) but I'm sure the selection was based on merit," he said in response to a question.

"I think 58 people applied and the all different considerations were made including leadership qualities," he added.

Othman, 49, was previously the group managing director for a consortium involved in project and property development as well as in the agro-based industry.

He will take over from Low Siew Moi beginning Feb 1. Low has been the acting general manager of the state agency since November.

Low's appointment, even in an acting capacity, had generated much controversy on the grounds that she is Chinese.

However, Othman, who has over 25 years of experience in the construction and property industry in Malaysia, Australia and the United Kingdom, said this contributed the most for his selection.

"And I also believe with the experience I've got, I could make a difference where I could help transform PKNS to improve. Because I can and I think I can. I think that's my responsibility," he said.

Controversy has been resolved

Meanwhile, Low who was also present, said the controversy surrounding her appointment has been resolved as the six staff bodies of PKNS have issued an apology to Abdul Khalid.

The staff bodies had objected to the appointment of the senior official as acting general manager to replace outgoing general manager Harun Salim on the grounds that she is a non-Malay.

"It has been resolved, they (the six bodies) have issued an apology to the MB. Basically after the controversy, I never had any difficulties with them.

"We have set aside what happened... actually I have been receiving support from all PKNS staff for the past two months and I believe they will continue to support me until the new general manager comes in,” she said.

Low, 57, a trained accountant, has served PKNS for 35 years with her last post being deputy GM for corporate development.

She also said she will remain as deputy general manager of finance once Othman takes over.

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