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We propose that the Government appoint chief or other executive officers in government-linked companies (GLCs) solely on merits and other internationally-accepted standard, eradicate wanton waste and avoid appointments of CEOs that makes our hair stand on end   Media Statement by Dr Tan Seng Giaw (Kuala Lumpur, Wednesday): Yesterday, the PM says he would set up a task force to facilitate the greater involvement of the private sector and reduce government expenditure. He would like to revamp the GLCs that include Khazanah Nasional, Permodalan Nasional Bhd, United Engineers, TNB, Telecom, and Indah Water Konsortium. He stresses the culture of high performance and profitability.  If the Government truly supports the private sector, uphold social responsibility and reduce federal budget deficit, then these will not be controversial. We hope that the Government means business.   Since Datuk Seri Abdullah says that he would increase open tender to stimulate growth in the private sector, we expect him to adopt internationally accepted standard for open tender. He should avoid just paying lip service and should not allow hanky-panky within the Government, what is often called negotiated tender.   To pursue the culture of high performance and profitability, the Government has to show an example such as only appoint CEOs of CLCs on merits or what he spells out as high calibre, qualified and capable. Such appointments should not be based on party political and racial background. Globalization does not allow for ridiculous appointments of CEOs. For example, the CEO of TNB must be genuinely capable. If the appointment is based on race and qualification from a famous university only, then forget about the culture of high performance and profitability.   (7/5/2004) * Dr Tan Seng Giaw, DAP National Vice-Chairman and MP for Kepong