KUALA LUMPUR: The new cabinet line-up announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has been seen as a move to further strengthen the unity government's operations and administration.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said the line-up, which saw the appointment of influential new ministers, several portfolio changes, as well as the restructuring of existing ministries could drive the plan and agenda laid down by the Madani government for the people's well-being.
"The prime minister undoubtedly has prioritised the country's interests and political stability in considering the cabinet reshuffle.
"This is crucial because the primary foundation for the arrival of investors and political stability is based on our drive to strengthen the economy.
"(Hence), I believe that the prime minister has carefully assessed the suitability of each minister and the entrusted portfolio based on their knowledge and skills after one year of monitoring (their performance) in the government," he said in a statement, today.
At the same time, Fadillah also thanked Anwar for entrusting him to continue to helm the deputy prime minister position, as well as the appointment of a new role as the Energy Transition and Renewable Energy Minister.
Fadillah, who was previously the Plantation and Commodities Minister, was also entrusted with the responsibility of overseeing the Sabah and Sarawak affairs.
"Similar to my time at the plantation and commodities ministry, as well as the two terms at works ministry previously, I pledge to do my best in fulfilling the trust and responsibilities in this new ministry.
"In terms of Sabah and Sarawak affairs, I will continue to prioritise resolving outstanding issues, returning the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) to its rightful position and closing the economic and social gap between Sabah, Sarawak and the Peninsula."
Meanwhile, Fadillah also hopes that his former ministry would give full support and cooperation to his successor Datuk Seri Johari Ghani.
"I express my utmost appreciation to all staff of the plantation and commodities ministry for all the cooperation and commitment given throughout my time there. With this, I hope that the same cooperation is given to my successor, Johari.
"I also hope that all members of the newly announced cabinet will continue to focus on working for the people and country and further strengthen the unity within the Madani government in facing challenges in many years to come.
"Regardless of race, religion and political ideologies, we may build a stable, progressive and prosperous Madani Malaysia based on the Federal Constitution and the National Principles."
Earlier today Anwar announced several changes in the federal cabinet line-up. He said the decision was made after discussing with leaders of parties in the unity government. (reference: https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2023/12/989335/reshuffle-anwars-new-c...)
Anwar's restructured cabinet now comprises 31 ministers, supported by 29 deputy ministers.
This represents a slight increase from his initial cabinet of 28 members, with assistance from 27 deputy ministers.
Among key changes include the appointment of Employee Provident Fund chief executive officer Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan as the Finance Minister II, Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani as the Plantation and Commodities minister and the return of Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad as Health Minister.