ALOR STAR: Kedah Umno information chief Datuk Shaiful Hazizy Zainol Abidin has questioned Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor's leadership priorities in light of salary arrears involving Kedah Agro Holdings Bhd, a state government-linked company.

He expressed dismay over the news shocking the country that the company has not paid 24 of it's employees since last September. But Sanusi, he said, has remained conspicuously silent on the matter.

"As a result, Kedah Agro employees are forced to borrow money and some are even experiencing marital disputes due to disrupted income, with others succumbing to depression.

"If we consider it logically, a leader who truly empathises with the people would not hesitate for a moment to settle overdue salaries, even if it means cutting their own pay.

"However, Sanusi's response is quite different. Instead of offering assistance, he has chosen to remain silent, refraining from issuing any statements or initiating further investigations," he said in a statement today.

Shaiful highlighted the stark contrast in Sanusi's behavior, alleging that Sanusi has exacerbated the workers' suffering by allegedly purchasing a new car.

"And not just any car, but one worth nearly RM400,000. Not to mention the special vehicle registration plate ordered.

"If we do a simple calculation, how many months' worth of unpaid wages for Kedah Agro workers could have been settled with RM400,000? At the very least, exercise patience, don't rush into things, consider purchasing it next year or the year after, or after the issue is resolved," he added.

Photos of a Hyundai Palisade, purportedly owned by Sanusi, have sparked discussions on social media recently.

Netizens claimed that its license plate, 'KCX 8', matches those of vehicles previously linked to the state leader, suggesting ownership.

Meanwhile, Shaiful pointed out that this isn't the first time such issues involving Sanusi have arisen.

"Look at the state football players' salaries, they weren't paid either. What's the point of appointing former national footballers as assemblymen if the situation remains the same? (He is) always blaming the federal government.

"Is this the MB you want to lead Kedah? Is this the behavior of an Islamic party MB? Is this the Pas leader MB? Is this your beloved 'sempoi' (casual) MB? Reflect on your preferences. The evidence is clear before your eyes," he added.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/03/1029398/why-sanusi-silent-kedah-agro-salary-arrears-questions-kedah-umno