Appointment not a reward, says Anwar

PUTRAJAYA: The appointment of Cabinet members will not be a form of reward for supporting the formation of the unity government, says the Prime Minister.

Adding that the formation of the unity government was expected to conclude in the next few days, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim reiterated that his Cabinet size would be reduced to put an end to “extravagance”.

“I don’t want to continue with this extravagant manner of appointing ministers as a form of reward.

“Of course, we can consider one or two positions as advisers where it is absolutely necessary but it shouldn’t be seen as rewarding the political masters in order to gain support,” he told reporters after chairing the National Action Council on Cost of Living Special Meeting here yesterday.

The previous administration led by Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob had consisted of 31 ministers and 38 deputy ministers.

The Pakatan Harapan chairman said he wanted ministers who would support him based on policies and were committed to good governance, anti-corruption and economic recovery.

He said the formation of the unity government Cabinet was expected to conclude within the next few days after meeting all coalition members.

“Of course, it takes time. I have to discuss it (formation of Cabinet) with the coalition members.

“I had a very good meeting with Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) chairman Datuk Seri Abang Johari and we spoke to Barisan Nasional, who also has its working committee to give some recommendations,” he said.

Anwar later held meetings with Sabah parties, including Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) chairman Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor and Warisan president Datuk Seri Shafie Apdal.

Later, asked if he had submitted the list of MPs from GRS for Cabinet posts, the Sabah Chief Minister said the matter was not discussed during the meeting.

Meanwhile, Amanah president Mohamed Sabu said there had yet to be any discussion among component parties in Pakatan on Cabinet posts, adding that this would be formed as soon as possible.

The main members in the unity government led by Anwar currently comprise Pakatan, Barisan and GPS while GRS, Warisan, Muda, Parti Bangsa Malaysia and two Independents in Sabah have voiced their support.