KUALA LUMPUR: Umno has congratulated Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob on his appointment as the new prime minister.
The party, in a brief statement, said the president, supreme council and party members extended their best wishes to Ismail Sabri, who is also Umno vice-president, over his new role.
Umno secretary general Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan said he was confident that Ismail Sabri's tenure as prime minister will be a successful one.
He also urged the latter to ensure that the country wins its battle against the Covid-19 pandemic.
"The prime minister must also improve the people's economy, stabilise the political scene, harmonise society as well as restore the country as a whole.
"May Allah assist him and his cabinet," he said in a Twitter post today.
Meanwhile, Barisan Nasional treasurer-general Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein said Ismail Sabri's appointment could help steer the country out of the crisis caused by the pandemic.
The former foreign minister, who is also Sembrong member of parliament, expressed hope that Ismail Sabri's ascension to the number one role ushers in political stability for the benefit of the people.
"Congratulations Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, who was announced as Malaysia's ninth prime minister.
"I mentioned a few days ago that what the country needs the most right now is stability.
"This is to enable the country to return its focus on efforts to address the Covid-19 crisis, restore the economy and protect the well-being of the people.
"InsyaAllah (God willing), I will help to my best abilities in my capacity for the sake of this beloved nation.
"All the best in undertaking the responsibilities which have been entrusted to you. May Allah bless this. Amin Ya Rabbal Alamin," he wrote in a Facebook post.