Yayasan Pelajar Johor (YPJ) has defended its decision two appoint two Bersatu division chiefs as the foundation’s board members.

In a statement today, YPJ said the appointment was made based on the duo’s academic qualifications, and experience in the education and corporate sectors.

“Political position has never been considered as a merit in the selection of YPJ board members,” it said.

It said Zais Mohd Akil was the principal assistant director of student affairs in the Ministry of Education from 2005 until 2008, and was also the former principal at Maktab Sultan Abu Bakar. In addition, he served at the Johor Department of Education as principal assistant director for 19 years.

As for Karmaine Sardini, YPJ said he was a former teacher at SMK Teluk Kerang, Pontian, before furthering his studies in architecture and became an architect at the Kuala Lumpur City Hall from 1980 until 2000.

For the record, Zais is the Johor Bahru Bersatu chief, while Karmaine is the Tanjung Pia Bersatu chief.

Pakatan Harapan had promised in its election manifesto to ensure that the appointment of board members in national and state GLCs would be from amongst professionals, rather than being based on political connections.

Earlier, former Umno Youth chief Khairy Jamaluddin chided the two Bersatu leaders’ appointments as YPJ board members.

Through his Twitter account, Khairy said Bersatu is no longer shy about political appointments.

"(This is the appointment) of the new board of the Johor Educational Foundation. (But you must) at least cover up the party position words.

"Just point out that they are from 'NGO kangkung' or other (organisations). Don't even bother to cover up, no shame at all," he taunted.