‘Youthful’ Syed makes history

25-year-old Johorean is the country’s youngest minister

PETALING JAYA: Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman is pleased to have created history as the youngest to be appointed a Cabinet minister. But, he acknowledges that he has big shoes to fill as the new Youth and Sports Minister.

The 25yearold from Johor was sworn in yesterday, breaking the record held by Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak who was appointed Culture, Youth and Sports Minister when he was 33 years old in 1986.

Syed Saddiq regarded his appointment as a huge honour for the youths of Malaysia.

“I believe I can do this and achieve things with the support of everyone from the ministry, working together as a team,” said the Manchester United football fan.

“The youths in this country will not be neglected. They are the ones who decide the future of this country and it’s a recognition from the Government in my appointment,” he added.

Syed Saddiq, a law graduate from International Islamic University Malaysia, recently turned down a second offer from Oxford University to pursue a Master’s degree in Public Policy.

Former Youth and Sports Minister Khairy Jamaluddin congratulated Syed Saddiq on his appointment.

“I pray that you will take the Youth and Sports Ministry to greater success” he tweeted.

However, Malaysians on social media were divided over Syed Saddiq’s appointment. Some congrat ulated him while others questioned whether it was a rational decision to appoint him as a minister.

Rodziah Puteh wrote on Facebook: “Forty is considered old, and were they any good? Give this guy a chance to prove his worth.”

Jenn Lau said the post should be taken up by a person with the right age and mind.

“Leave the experience part to the experienced deputy and staff to support and carry the tasks,” Lau said.

Steven Sim Chee Keong, 36, is the new Deputy Youth and Sports Minister.

However, Visva Rao said that Saddiq should have been given a deputy minister’s post, as there were more seasoned and experienced politicians to helm the ministry.

“I wonder how the ministry’s officials will treat him, knowing that he lacks experience, let alone managing people,” said Meor Amran.