IPOH: New Deputy Information Minister Datuk Tan Lian Hoe pledges to do her best to safeguard the freedom of the media.

The 50-year-old Wanita Gerakan head described her portfolio as a heavy responsibility, because there was no parliamentary secretary to help her and Information Minister Datuk Ahmad Shabery Cheek.

"I will liaise with media representatives, although rules and regulations must be adhered to at all times. Expectations are high, but I will give my best."

When contacted by the New Straits Times yesterday, the Gerik member of parliament had just heard the news.

"I am elated and surprised by my portfolio. I was not informed about this although I was told that I would be appointed a deputy minister."

Apart from Tan, the other Gerakan representative in the line-up is Senator A. Kohilan Pillay, who was appointed deputy minister of plantation industries and commodities.

In the recently-concluded polls, Gerakan won two parliamentary and four state seats.