Nanta pledges to be 'minister for all, not just Sarawakians'

KUCHING: Newly-appointed Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi (pic) has pledged to be a "minister for all, not just for Sarawakians".

The Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) secretary-general said he would ensure that all measures and initiatives under his ministry would benefit the people throughout Malaysia, including in Sabah and Sarawak.

"This appointment is an important responsibility in contributing to the unity government's economic recovery efforts, especially as 2023 is expected to be a challenging year.

"I'm also aware that this responsibility comes with big challenges.

"I will give my full commitment to the task ahead," he said in a statement Friday (Dec 2) night.

Nanta was one of five GPS MPs appointed to the Cabinet by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

The others are newly-minted Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, who is also Plantations and Commodities Minister; Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri (Women, Family and Community Development); Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing (Tourism); and Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang (Unity).

Nanta thanked Anwar for the appointment and Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg for the trust in him to represent GPS to serve in the Federal administration.

He also said he would continue to implement the ministry's previous policies to benefit the people and nation.

"I also respect the role of civil servants in the ministry who have contributed their ideas and energy.

"We will continue to work together as a team for our beloved nation," he said.

With the Cabinet announced, Nanta called on everyone to move forward and focus on the nation's economic recovery and well-being.

"Let us put aside our differences and give our full attention to rebuild the nation," he added.