KUALA LUMPUR: After over two weeks of political uncertainty, the newly formed Perikatan Nasional (PN) government has resolved one of its main issues: the appointment of cabinet members.
While leaders from the ruling pact are celebrating, some prefer to keep their colleagues on their toes to ensure the new government’s longevity.
Sabah Umno chief Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin reminded ministers of the reality of the political landscape.
He said they should learn from the mistakes of Pakatan Harapan (PH) leaders.
“We have to remember that this (appointment of cabinet members) was not done based on the outcome of the 14th General Election.
“This government was formed due to the split in PH.
“Some of our new ministers were in the PH cabinet and if they and other new ministers (in PN) don’t learn from mistakes, history will repeat itself.”
On Monday, Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin announced the new cabinet line-up without a deputy prime minister. Instead, he introduced four senior ministers.
The four senior ministers are expected to assist the prime minister, including chairing cabinet meetings in his absence.
They are Datuk Seri Azmin Ali (also international trade and industry minister), Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob (defence minister), Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof (works minister) and Dr Mohd Radzi Md Jidin (education minister).
The new cabinet also comprises non-politicians. Former Federal Territories mufti Datuk Seri Dr Zulkifli Mohamad Al-Bakri is minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (religious affairs) while former CIMB group chief executive officer Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz is finance minister.
Although negative sentiments towards Umno and Barisan Nasional leaders persist, others feel that the new cabinet members should be given a chance, at least six months, to prove themselves.
Pas vice-president Idris Ahmad preferred the “wait and see” approach to provide space for the new ministers to perform.
“The strength of this cabinet lies in the combination of old and new faces, and also the involvement of professionals.
“We should give them time, at least six months, to prove that they are capable leaders.”
For more on Malaysia's 2020 Cabinet line-up, click here