Cabinet reshuffle: It’s a calling from God, says new DPM Ahmad Zahid


PUTRAJAYA: Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi (pic) said it was a calling from God for him to assume the position of Deputy Prime Minister, replacing Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.

Dr Ahmad Zahid, who was all smiles after the Cabinet reshuffle was announced Tuesday, said he never hoped for any position from Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak from the time he entered politics.

“This is a calling that I could not avoid. Najib and I go way back. I was his political secretary when he was the Youth and Sports Minister.

“I never expected anything in return, but Allah has determined this in my fate,” he told a press conference after Najib announced the new Cabinet line-up here.

Dr Ahmad Zahid, who maintains his portfolio as a Home Minister, believed Najib’s decision to drop Muhyiddin was not an easy one.

“But I hope all our friends in the Cabinet, Umno and Barisan Nasional members from all levels will continue supporting Najib’s leadership,” he said.

He thanked Najib for having faith in him to bear such a responsibility.

“This is the responsibility that I need to translate to the nation and to the people,” he said, before leaving the press conference without taking any questions.

Get 20% OFF The Star Digital Access

Monthly Plan

RM 13.90/month

RM 11.12/month

Billed as RM 11.12 for the 1st month, RM 13.90 thereafter.

Best Value

Annual Plan

RM 12.33/month

RM 9.87/month

Billed as RM 118.40 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Next In Nation

Anwar ranked 13th in 2027 list of world's 500 most influential Muslims
Kedah MB's daughter injured in motorcycle accident
Najib's house arrest: Govt followed legal process, did not defy King, says Anwar
Anwar says yet to receive Loke’s resignation letter, wants to discuss it again
Bar entitled to challenge Pardons Board decision if it has grounds, says Azalina
Malaysia tightens screening of international students to safeguard higher education quality, says DG
Selangor Immigration nabs 59 undocumented foreigners hiding in businesses
Identify flood-risk areas, clear clogged drains, Anwar tells Selangor agencies
Melaka polls: Anwar campaigns for Pakatan with walkabout
Cabinet must back Anwar’s reform agenda, not stand in its way, says Fahmi

Air Pollutant Index

Note: API is calculated based on 24hr running average of the most dominant parameter.

Highest API Readings

    Select State and Location to view the latest API reading

    Others Also Read