KUCHING: Being appointed Deputy Prime Minister is a recognition of Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) and the Borneo bloc of Sabah and Sarawak, says Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.
“This is a big responsibility to be shouldered with determination, sincerity and honesty in the interests of political stability, the nation’s economy and prosperity,” he said.
Fadillah, who is the first Deputy Prime Minister from either of the Borneo states, said the post was not something to brag about but a task entrusted to him by the people and the nation.
“I will carry out this responsibility in accordance with the Yang di-Pertuan Agong’s decree to give our full commitment and best service to the people.
“Regardless of race, religion or political affiliation, let us all together build a stable, advanced and prosperous Malaysia based on the Federal Constitution and Rukun Negara,” he said in a statement.
Fadillah thanked Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for appointing him as DPM, as well as Plantations and Commodities Minister.
He also expressed his appreciation to Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, the GPS leadership, Sarawak MPs and Sarawakians for their trust in him.
He was one of five GPS MPs appointed to the Cabinet by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Meanwhile, newly appointed Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi has pledged to be a “minister for all, not just for Sarawakians”.
The GPS secretary-general said he would ensure all measures and initiatives under his ministry would benefit people throughout Malaysia, including in Sabah and Sarawak.
“I will give my full commitment to the task ahead,” he said in a statement.
The other three GPS MPs appointed ministers are Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri (Women, Family and Community Development); Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing (Tourism); and Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang (Unity).
