KUALA LUMPUR – Senior Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein has extended his gratitude to the prime minister for his promotion.
The Sembrong MP said he will now lead the security cluster, as well as assist Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin in implementing the National Recovery Plan.
“I am aware and humbled, in the face of the Covid-19 pandemic, that the responsibilities and expectations of the people are huge,” he said in a statement this evening.
“God willing, I will shoulder the responsibility as best as I can.”
The Umno leader stressed the importance of stability, unity and cooperation from all parties in overcoming the health crisis.
“Believe me, whatever position that is entrusted to me, my stance remains the same.
“I want to sincerely work for the people and country. I pray and hope Allah blesses this decision.”
Muhyiddin has also made Senior Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob deputy prime minister.
Both Ismail Sabri and Hishammuddin’s appointments have been presented to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, and are effective immediately.
Rumours of Hishammuddin being made deputy prime minister made the rounds last month.
Ismail Sabri, meanwhile, recently met Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi purportedly to discuss the ultimatum issued by the latter to Muhyiddin: convene Parliament in 14 days, failing which, Umno would pull out of Perikatan Nasional administration.
Despite a series of Supreme Council meetings this week, it appears that Zahid’s plan has not gotten much traction.
It was reported that more than 20 of the party’s 38 MPs are reluctant to leave the ruling coalition. – The Vibes, July 7, 2021
