SENIOR lawyer Baldev Singh Gurchan Singh has declined the appointment to head the Penang Appeals Board following concerns raised in media reports, said Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.

“Probably he didn’t want to prolong the issue although he is well qualified to be appointed to head the Penang Appeals Board under the Penang Freedom of Information Enactment, for which basically there are not many cases over the years. Practically no cases at all.

“But then, since concerns have been raised, he has taken the appropriate action not to prolong this issue,” Chow was quoted as saying in the New Straits Times today.

Earlier, the appointment came under fire as Baldev Singh is also the father-in-law of Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo.

The state assembly recently passed a motion to appoint Baldev to head the six-member Penang Appeals Board, which fell under the Penang Freedom of Information Enactment 2010.

The motion was tabled by Jagdeep himself.

Chow said Jagdeep had explained the appointment of Baldev was due to a vacancy that required additional members to be appointed.

He said the paper had gone through the state executive council (exco) and was later approved by the state assembly.

“You can read about Baldev Singh’s distinguished career in the legal services, legal aid work and other charitable activities in Penang over the last 60 years,” he added.

Jagdeep, meanwhile, clarified in a post on Facebook that the appointment was made solely on merit and the extensive contributions Baldev had made throughout his illustrious career.

“Baldev Singh brings over 60 years of distinguished experience as a lawyer, one of the longest serving. His dedication to the legal profession and his unwavering commitment to charitable work, particularly in providing legal aid, have been invaluable.

“His peers in the committee, including former Bar Council chair and Penang Bar Committee chair, have recognised his seniority, rank, and expertise, unanimously agreeing on his suitability for the role of chairman.

“His appointment was not a decision made lightly or without thorough consideration. The nomination was unanimously agreed upon at the recent state legislative assembly, with support from the chief minister, the state excos and all members present.

“This consensus reflects the high regard in which Baldev is held within the legal community and beyond,” he said.

Penang government critics, such as former deputy chief minister P Ramasamy, had questioned the appointment, urging Chow to explain it. – June 2, 2024.