King welcomes consensus reached among leaders in Unity Govt

PETALING JAYA: Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah has welcomed the consensus reached among the leaders of parties under the Unity Government.

In his opening speech in Parliament on Monday (Feb 13), the King said that this was in line with the good intention to form a stable and strong government.

"With that, the government can focus all its efforts to strengthen its resolve to guarantee political stability and economic growth that will protect the welfare of the people," he said.

The Yang di-Pertuan Agong also said that he appreciated the introduction of various initiatives under the Negara Madani concept, which included aspects of sustainability, welfare, innovation, respect, confidence, courtesy and grace.

His Majesty also hoped that this will be translated comprehensively within the framework in order to further push the country forward.

He also extended congratulations to Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on his appointment as the 10th prime minister as well as to his Cabinet members under the unity government.

"Congratulations to the Prime Minister for proving his legitimacy through a motion of confidence in the Dewan Rakyat on Dec 19.

"I would also like to take this opportunity to record my gratitude to (former prime minister) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob for his contributions when leading the country as the 9th prime minister," said the King.

Anwar's motion of confidence was passed in parliament on Dec 19 last year.

More than 10 debaters from both sides of the political divide had participated in the debate of the motion which was tabled by deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.