PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim will discontinue the practice of rewarding those who supported political masters.
The newly minted prime minister said he would not continue with the extravagant manner of appointing ministers as a reward.
"Therefore, (in the last administration) you have 70 ministers plus special envoys and advisors. Of course we can consider one or two, only when it is necessary.
"(In my cabinet), I want them to support me based on my policies, commitment to good governance, anti-corruption, as well as to resuscitate the economy," he told reporters after chairing the 2022 National Action Council on the Cost of Living special meeting at Perdana Putra here.
Meanwhile, on the formation of his cabinet, Anwar said it would take some time.
"This is because I have to discuss it with the coalition members within Pakatan Harapan (PH), as well as UPKO and GPS (Gabungan Parti Sarawak), which I had a meeting with Abang Jo (Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg) at my house yesterday.
"I also have to speak to Barisan Nasional (BN) representatives and later today I have a meeting here with GRS (Gabungan Rakyat Sabah), to be headed by (Datuk Seri) Hajiji (Noor).
"I also have to discuss it with Warisan. It is ongoing. (But) I think in the next few days, InsyaAllah we will be able to come out with recommendations," he said.
Anwar said he agreed that the country has to function and now that the prime minister has been appointed, it is important that the entire team must be appointed so that we can start working.
"Today, for example, is quite extraordinary, because I only suggested to the Chief Secretary of the Government to meet a core team, but all participated.
"I'm deeply touched and encouraged by the sentiment expressed by our public servants, to show that they are committed despite the short notice," he said.