PRESS RELEASE
YB GOBIND SINGH DEO APPOINTS FRIENDS OF MINISTRY (FOM) TO STRENGTHEN DIGITAL AGENDA
PUTRAJAYA, AUG 25, 2025 – The Minister of Digital, YB Gobind Singh Deo, today announced the official appointment of Friends of Ministry (FoM) at a ceremony held at the ministry. This initiative, which was an idea from the Government Backbenchers Club, received approval from the Cabinet on February 21, 2025.
The FoM initiative aims to empower the role of Backbenchers in the Dewan Rakyat and act as a bridge connecting the Ministry with elected representatives, particularly on issues related to government policies and program implementation. According to Gobind, the platform will facilitate the exchange of views and input, ensuring that the Ministry's plans are well-structured and implemented inclusively.
The FoM will serve several key functions, including:
● Acting as policy communicators at the grassroots level to help the public understand government policies and their benefits.
● Building a positive narrative to foster a good perception of the Unity Government's administration.
● Providing input and research to support the Ministry with useful information, suggestions, and studies, especially for parliamentary debates.
For the Ministry of Digital, the FoM will be crucial in strengthening the national digital policy by contributing relevant input and views. They will also act as a communication medium to explain the objectives and benefits of digital initiatives to the public and support digital-related bills and motions in Parliament.
In his speech, the Minister reiterated the Ministry of Digital's commitment to ensuring the FoM operates effectively. This commitment includes providing comprehensive and up-to-date information, prioritizing their involvement in policy planning, and maintaining good relations through regular meetings and dialogues. The Ministry will also provide a platform for participation in its programs and guarantee access to resources, training, and reference materials.
A total of 13 Members of Parliament were present at the appointment ceremony. Among those appointed and present were YB Tuan Ganabatirau A/L Veraman (Klang), YB Puan Syerleena Binti Abdul Rashid (Bukit Bendera), YB Dato Anyi Ngau (Baram), and YB Datuk Seri Ir. Dr. Wee Ka Siong (Ayer Hitam).
The Minister expressed his confidence that this close collaboration between the Ministry and the FoM members will drive the national digital agenda to greater heights.
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Issued by:
Office of the Minister
Ministry of Digital
