KOTA KINABALU: Sabah’s newly-appointed State Legislative Assembly Speaker Datuk Syed Abas Syed Ali is excited over his new role.
The Balung state assemblyman said he did not expect to take over as the ninth speaker but welcomed the new role with delight.
“Of course, I am excited about my new job. It is something new and fresh for me.
“It (appointment) came as a surprise to me, having served as state assemblyman for five terms. But at 67 years old, I think this is the right age for me to become speaker,” he said.
Syed Abas said this when met by reporters after an Aidilfitri open house organised by Warisan Harta Sdn Bhd, of which he is company chairman.
Also present at the event was his predecessor, Datuk Seri Dr Salleh Tun Said Keruak, who has been appointed communication and multimedia minister, following the Federal Cabinet reshuffle on July 28.
Syed Abas said Salleh hoped the new speaker would carry out his duties with responsibility.
“InsyaAllah (God willing), I will work hard as his (Salleh’s) successor. It is not an easy job, but I will carry out my new duties as what is expected of me,” he added.
He said he would resign as Warisan Harta chairman as soon as a new chairman was appointed, which is scheduled before the next state legislative assembly sitting in November. – BERNAMA