KUALA LUMPUR – Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob has accepted his appointment as deputy prime minister.
In a statement today, Ismail also expressed gratitude to Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and the party’s leadership.
Ismail Sabri also extended his “deepest appreciation” to Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin for trusting him with the post.
“Also thanks to the MPs, political party leaders, and all Malaysians. This is a responsibility that needs to be taken with sincerity and honesty for the sake of political stability, economy, and the nation’s well-being.
“This appointment is not a privilege, but a heavy trust and responsibility, especially as we face the Covid-19 pandemic in our effort to realise the National Recovery Plan (NRP)” he added.
He also asked all quarters, regardless of race, religion, and political beliefs, to band together to bring a better future for the country.
Meanwhile, Senior Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein extended his gratitude to the prime minister for his promotion.
The Sembrong MP said he will now lead the security cluster, and assist Muhyiddin in implementing the NRP.
“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. Believe me, whatever position that is entrusted to me, my stance remains the same.
“I sincerely want to work for the people and country. I pray and hope Allah blesses this decision.”
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 the 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
