THE new exco line-up of the Perlis State Government, which consists of Bersatu and PAS representatives, will be appointed within the next two weeks at the latest.
Menteri Besar, Abu Bakar Hamzah said, the exco line-up will be appointed after discussions with the State Secretary, Datuk Rahimi Ismail, and then a proposal will be sent to the Raja of Perlis Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Jamalullail for approval.
"The process for this new appointment will take some time, but for now, the existing exco will be the 'caretaker' for any events that can be attended. God willing, I think in two weeks we will complete it, (whether there is an increase or decrease) we will also consider the budget and several factors.
"So that the administration or appointment of this exco... at least can balance the leadership of the two parties (Bersatu and PAS) and the government administration can also be completed in a harmonious and good manner," he said.
He said this after a 'clock-in' session on his first day at the Menteri Besar's Office at the Seri Putra Complex today.
Abu Bakar, who is also the Kuala Perlis State Assemblyman (ADUN), said that although Perlis has limited sources of income, he remains confident that the state is able to move towards more balanced development with several approaches taken.
"Perlis will change the pattern and way of service with the 'trademark' 3B, rise, be agile and do, meaning we rise with the key to our success, be agile with the powers we have and we do with the capital we have.
"We have to rise from sleep, rise from weakness, rise from laziness and so on, this is what we emphasize to myself and also to all the people who are government employees," he said.
He also announced that he had slashed his salary and those of his exco.
The Bersatu leader is taking a RM3,000 monthly pay cut, while each exco member will see a RM1,500 reduction.
Abu Bakar said the move is aimed at easing the state's financial burden and demonstrating solidarity with the people.
"There are people in this state who struggle to earn even RM500 a month. I am taking this pay cut willingly so the people can see that we are with them," he said.
Abu Bakar was appointed as the new Menteri Besar of Perlis, replacing Mohd Shukri Ramli who resigned last Thursday. – December 29, 2025
