Perak MB to assume Yong’s portfolio for the time being
IPOH: Perak menteri besar Datuk Seri Ahmad Faizal Azumu will temporarily handle the portfolio of state executive committee member, Paul Yong pending the disposal of the latter’s rape trial.
Faizal said he would have no issue taking on extra responsibilities in addition to being chairman for the Perak Housing and Property Board.
“I don’t think there will be a problem in carrying out the duty. I will take over his other portfolios as well,” he told reporters after attending the “Love my palm oil campaign” at the State Secretariat Building.
Last Friday, Yong, who holds the housing, local government, public transport and non-Islamic and new village affairs portfolio, claimed trial in the Sessions Court to raping his Indonesian maid at his house last month.
He initially declined to take a leave of absence for the duration of his trial despite Faizal’s advise but eventually relented.
Yong maintains his innocence and alleges the charge to be part of a ‘political conspiracy’ against him.
Today, Faizal said that Yong’s leave was indefinite but would not disrupt the state administration.
“We respect Yong’s decision to take leave from his exco duties. However, he will still continue his duties as the Tronoh assemblyman.
“This is the right decision as he can give full focus on his trial. We don’t fix a timeline here. Let him focus on his trial,” he said.