GEORGE TOWN, November 24 – Senior lawyer K Kumaraendran has been appointed as the chairman of Penang’s Freedom of Information Enactment 2010 appeals board, replacing lawyer Baldev Gurchan Singh, following allegations of nepotism. Baldev, the father-in-law of Deputy Chief Minister Jagdeep Singh Deo, declined the position amidst controversy over his nomination.
Defending the initial appointment, Jagdeep emphasized Baldev’s 58 years of legal experience and clarified that the nomination was transparent and disclosed during the assembly. With Baldev stepping down voluntarily, Kumaraendran was selected for his extensive experience and seniority. The revamped six-member board includes former Bar Council president Fareed Gafoor as deputy chairman and new member K Simon Murali, alongside Carolyn Oh, Nagarethinam Rengasamy Pillai, and Regina Amalorpava Mary Aboorvasamy.
Jagdeep acknowledged criticisms but reiterated that appointments were based on merit, with Kumaraendran’s qualifications ensuring the board’s effectiveness in serving the public interest. The updated appointments were endorsed by the assembly with support from Executive Councillor Daniel Gooi.
