Ex-Minister of Health for Malaysia now a DJ

They say everyone is a DJ these days, and anyone can become one. Imagine a high-profile Thai person like Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s voice keeping you company on the radio during your morning commute. Does the idea of a Minister of Public Health as a radio disc jockey sound too far-fetched? Not in Malaysia it doesn’t, as the former Health Minister is becoming a DJ.

After a losing run in Malaysia’s last election, the now former Minister of Health for Malaysia Khairy Jamaluddin, or KJ as he is popularly known, is joining Hot FM’s Bekpes Hot show as a DJ. He will join radio hosts Johan, AG, and AC Mizal to serve as an on-air personality. Hot FM, owned by Media Prima Audio, announced KJ’s appointment in an open letter on Instagram and an accompanying statement.

“The offer to Khairy was made in an open letter on Instagram @hotfm976. He will be on duty as a radio announcer from 6am to 10am, Mondays to Fridays. Having him join Hot FM is in line with the radio station’s tagline ‘Yang Hangat Dan Terbaik’ (‘The Hottest And Best’).”

In the last general election in November, the 47 year old former politician lost his parliamentary seat in the district of Rembau in the state of Negeri Sembilan, just south of Kuala Lumpur. He was also ousted from his party for speaking out against its leadership.

But, as Hot FM’s CEO stated, KJ’s presence as a DJ on the radio in Malaysia will bring a new level of freshness and relevance to its listeners.

“Khairy is a strong social media influencer and his presence on Hot FM will give something different to listeners, as well as a new dimension to Malaysian radio stations. We are optimistic that it will attract more listeners to Hot FM.”

Hot FM’s network content director says KJ has exciting ideas to add some extra pizzazz to Bekpes Hot and will be sharing hosting duties with Fara Fauzana and AG.

Prior to his new radio gig, as Health Minister, KJ has been praised for his role in the successful rollout of Malaysia’s Covid-19 vaccination program, from securing vaccines to raising public awareness of the importance of receiving them.