KUALA LUMPUR: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has expressed hope that Barisan Nasional (BN) representatives in the government will form an effective collaboration among the new members of the unity government's cabinet.
Zahid, who is also BN chairman, emphasised the significance of fostering collaboration, understanding, and ensuring strong cooperation between BN representatives and other cabinet members.
He added that this cohesion was vital in formulating policies and strategies aimed at attaining the nation's development objectives.
"Earlier this morning before the commencement of the cabinet meeting, I had the opportunity to spend time with my colleagues from BN who have been entrusted with ministerial and deputy ministerial responsibilities.
"I hope that everyone given this responsibility will strive to establish effective collaboration, accurate understanding, and good cooperation between BN representatives and other cabinet members in creating policies and strategies in achieving the nation's development goals," he said on Facebook.
There are currently 12 Umno members of parliament in government after Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced the reshuffle yesterday. These include seven ministers and five deputy ministers.
Zahid, who is also Umno president, maintained his portfolio as the Rural and Regional Development Minister.
Umno vice-presidents Datuk Seri Johari Ghani and Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin were appointed as Plantation Industries and Commodities Minister and Defense Minister respectively.
Khaled took over the Defense portfolio from Umno deputy president Datuk Seri Mohamad Hassan, who had switched portfolios to the Foreign Ministry.
He replaced BN secretary-general Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir, who had been appointed as Higher Education Minister.
Also included in the new cabinet lineup is Umno Wanita chief Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad, who was appointed as the Deputy Women, Family, and Community Development Minister.
Umno information chief Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said had retained her position as a Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reform).
Meanwhile, Zahid also said he hoped all BN representatives would fulfil their responsibilities with dedication, and continue to uphold the party's image.
"We are the representatives tasked with championing issues related to the people's interests. May all BN cabinet members play their roles effectively in strengthening the unity government and empowering the Malaysia Madani agenda," he added.