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KUALA LUMPUR – Newly appointed deputy prime minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has called for a stop to provocative statements and actions following new ministerial appointments.
The Barisan National (BN) chairman said the new unity government had to focus on dealing with the country’s challenges and needed the people’s support.
“We will stop the political instability that has damaged and hindered the prosperity of Malaysia.
“Let us come together as Malaysians to agree on a better future for all,” he said in a Facebook post.
Besides being deputy prime minister, Zahid also heads the Rural and Regional Development Ministry, among 28 portfolios announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim last night.
Zahid’s appointment has been greeted with a mixed response, with concerns over his ongoing graft trials, despite the seeming necessity of having him in the cabinet to ensure stability. Anwar’s unity government comprises former rival coalitions that have agreed to come together after the 15th general election resulted in a hung Parliament.
Zahid said his appointments were a heavy responsibility, given the economic challenges predicted globally for next year.
He said the appointments should not be seen as “the spoils of war”.
Expressing gratitude for the cabinet appointments, he expressed hope that all would work together under Anwar’s leadership for Malaysia’s benefit.
“Thank you for the prime minister’s trust in me and my friends in BN to be in the cabinet.” – The Vibes, December 3, 2022