‘Put political instability to rest’

PETALING JAYA: Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has called for an end to the political instability that had damaged and hindered Malaysia’s prosperity.

In thanking Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for his trust in appointing those from Barisan Nasional to the Cabinet, he said: “This trust is not the spoils of war but a very heavy responsibility as the global economy is predicted to be very challenging next year.

“We are confident that the unity government will be able to deal with the challenges that lie ahead for the benefit of Malaysia and its people,” he said in a Facebook post.

Ahmad Zahid, who is now Deputy Prime Minister, also reminded all parties to stop carrying out any provocative action that could cause unrest among the people or hinder the government’s efforts to revive the economy.

“Let us come together for a better future for Malaysia,” he said.

On Friday night, Anwar unveiled his Cabinet list which comprised, among others, Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof of Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) and Ahmad Zahid as the two Deputy Prime Ministers.

In total, there are six ministers from Barisan Nasional – all from Umno – in the new Cabinet.

Aside from Ahmad Zahid, who is also holding the Rural And Regional Development portfolio, they are Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan (Defence Minister), Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz (International Trade and Industry Minister), Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin (Higher Education Minister), Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said (Law And Institutional Reform Minister) and Datuk Seri Zambry Abdul Kadir (Foreign).

Meanwhile, Umno leaders have lauded the appointment of the six.

Party secretary-general Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan tweeted, “These six are representing Umno and Barisan. May you excel in your respective endeavours. Thank you Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim,” he posted.

Umno supreme council member Datuk Seri Dr Shamsul Anuar Nasarah expressed confidence that the new line-up would be able to deliver the people’s wishes.

“May all of them be able to serve well for our beloved country and the people,” he said.

Fellow supreme council member Datuk Rais Yasin said the Cabinet appointment proved that Barisan’s political dynamics had successfully brought stability to the country.

“Let us set aside any political differences. Let us celebrate our togetherness in administrating this unity government led by Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

“This is not the time to look back on the past but to work hand in hand to bring progress and prosperity to the country,” he said.