Anwar hopes to restore economic confidence through new approaches in Finance Ministry

PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (pic), who is also the newly-appointed Finance Minister, wants to restore economic confidence through several new approaches.

“I’m not inclined (for the post), but I want to start new policy approaches and restore economic confidence among local traders and foreign investors.

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“I thought that with this start, I will be assisted by a strong team who are not only civil servants, but also a group of advisors who will not burden the government’s coffers,” said Anwar in a press conference at Perdana Putra on Friday (Dec 2).

Earlier in his announcement, Anwar said Finance Ministry matters will be assisted by several advisors led by former Petronas president and CEO Tan Sri Mohd Hassan Marican.

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Meanwhile, Anwar said the newly-appointed Cabinet ministers will be sworn in at 3pm on Saturday (Dec 3).

“I will have a special meeting with the ministers so I can convey several matters to them, such as new rules, direction as well as new methods that are just introduced,” said Anwar.

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Anwar also said ministers should begin their duties soon and he advised them to avoid wastages, bribery, and abuse of power.

“I have made it clear to the Cabinet that the unity government prioritises good governance and the need to reduce the people’s burden, as well as focusing on stimulating the economy,” Anwar said.

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Anwar said his Cabinet, which comprises 29 ministers, is a clear signal to the people that the unity government together with the civil service, will ensure that its promises are fulfilled.

Meanwhile, Anwar also said deputy ministers will be made known at a later date.

“The deputy ministers will be announced soon,” he said.

Among the highlights of Anwar’s Cabinet was that two Deputy Prime Ministers were appointed - Barisan Nasional chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Gabungan Parti Sarawak chief whip Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.