What discretion did Tengku Zafrul say he had as finance minister?

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Tengku Zafrul Confirmed Discretion Over Government Project Applications

As finance minister, Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz possessed the authority to decide whether or not to act upon companies' applications for government projects. While he affirmed this discretion, he also stated that he would ensure applications forwarded by the prime minister received consideration from the Finance Ministry. His testimony clarified that the ultimate decision-making power rested with him once applications reached his ministry or were brought to his attention.
Power to Act or Not Act on Applications

Tengku Zafrul explicitly confirmed that he had the power to take action or not take action on companies' applications for government projects. He agreed that this was the case as long as these applications reached the Finance Ministry or were brought to his personal attention. This indicates that while applications could be submitted, their progression was subject to his ministerial review and decision.
Prime Ministerial Referrals Mandated Consideration

While possessing the ultimate discretion, Tengku Zafrul stated that he would "act on it" if an application was specifically from the prime minister. He further elaborated that his action would be to "ensure it is put to consideration." This suggests that while he retained the power to ultimately deny, referrals from the prime minister necessitated a formal review process within the Finance Ministry.
Minutes as Guidance, Not Directives

Regarding minutes from the prime minister, Tengku Zafrul explained they served as a way to highlight matters for his attention and potential action. However, he also acknowledged that such minutes could convey a negative directive, for instance, if the prime minister explicitly stated "I do not agree." For the Jana Wibawa projects specifically, he confirmed that the prime minister's minutes were essentially a notification and a request to investigate the companies' applications.
No Indication of Preferential Treatment or Interference

Tengku Zafrul agreed that a list of 54 companies sent by the prime minister did not inherently signify preferential treatment or that any specific companies should be favoured. He also confirmed that there was no interference or meddling by the prime minister or the Prime Minister's Office in the awarding of projects or the government's evaluation of companies' qualifications. When questioned if such a list meant approval, he clarified that it meant the companies "should be considered."

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What discretion did Tengku Zafrul say he had as finance minister?

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