KUALA LUMPUR: Speculations by the Opposition over Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein’s appointment as Special Functions Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department showed that they are uneasy over the strong cooperation among the government’s top leadership.
Hishammuddin said his new portfolio was geared towards a more efficient delegation of work.
“Maybe they (the Opposition) are uneasy over the cooperation and understanding among the top leadership, which shows solidarity.
“In actual fact, I believe that those on the ground already understand the situation (surrounding his appointment), based on the statements given,” he said in a press conference on the sidelines of Dewan Negara proceedings today.
Hishammuddin was asked to comment on claims that the new portfolio would cause friction between him and Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
It was reported Monday that Hishammuddin’s first task as the Special Functions Minister would be to monitor security in Sabah, where he will be working closely with Zahid and Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman.
Zahid and Musa jointly chair the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (Esszone), while Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak is the Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom) chairman.