The Malaysian Insight

THE appointment of former inspector-general of police Khalid Abu Bakar as Prasarana Malaysia Bhd group chairman will reinforce security and safety aspects in public transportation services, says Finance Minister Najib Razak.

Najib, who is also prime minister, said in a written parliamentary reply that Khalid’s appointment was based on his extensive experience and capabilities as a leader, as proven by his stint in the police force. 

“Apart from his experience, leadership qualities and management experience, Khalid’s extensive experience in safety and security will strengthen the safety and security aspects in public transportation services provided by Prasarana,” he said in a parliamentary reply dated November 16.

Kota Raja MP Dr Siti Mariah Mahmud had questioned Khalid’s qualifications to be chairman of Prasarana.

On September 5, Bernama reported that Khalid has been appointed the new chairman of Prasarana, as well as a special envoy. 

The announcement was made by Najib, who said Khalid’s appointment as a special envoy was to boost ties in efforts to fight terrorism, extremist ideologies and human trafficking. 

“This is in view of his vast experience and the good ties Khalid had fostered with international security agencies as inspector-general of police,” Najib had said.

Khalid replaced Ismail Adam as Prasarana chairman, who stepped down on August 31.

Prasarana is a government-owned company set up in September 1998 to manage public transport in Kuala Lumpur.

Khalid retired from the police force on September 4 after 40 years in the police force. – November 20, 2017.