KUALA LUMPUR: Filmmakers Dr Ahmad Idham Ahmad Nadzri and Datuk Seri Eizlan Yusof, whose contracts with the Foreign Ministry were recently terminated, have accepted Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Abdullah's decision wholeheartedly.
The duo confirmed that they received their termination letters on Monday, and these were dated Feb 23.
"No reasons were given in the letters. To be honest we do feel a bit upset that our services to the Ministry ended abruptly, but we accept (Foreign Minister) Datuk Seri Saifuddin Abdullah's decision wholeheartedly," said Ahmad Idham in an online interview today.
Ahmad Idham revealed that the termination letter came when he was under quarantine with his family, after being tested positive for Covid-19.
"I feel that the letter could have come at a better time, as I was still unwell then," he said.
"Nevertheless, in my contract it is said that the Minister can terminate my services at any time."
When asked about allegations that both planned to contest in the 15th General Election as Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia candidates, Eizlan said that it was "totally untrue".
"That's really absurd and funny. We did not lobby to be candidates," he said, adding that they did not want to point fingers at others or make it a political issue.
"Both of us report directly to the Minister, who is always open to discussions. It was only this time around that he did not discuss ending our contracts with his Ministry."
Ahmad Idham and Eizlan joined the Ministry on Nov 1 last year, as cultural secretary and creative adviser respectively.
"My job focused on cultural and artistic diplomacy. It was a special task to promote Malaysian culture and arts overseas, and both of us worked well with Ministry officials," he said.
Eizlan said that they both wanted to help bring the creative industry to the next level, but certain individuals could be attempting to tarnish their image by spreading rumours about them.
"Some people want to create friction between the Minister and us. We are not very active in Bersatu, and have only helped the Minister with his work as Member of Parliament for Indera Mahkota in Pahang."
Ahmad Idham said that they planned to meet Bersatu president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin soon, to clear the air over allegations that they were lobbying for seats in the 15th General Election.