KOTA KINABALU – All of Sabah’s ruling party leaders, including Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Mohd Noor, have conveyed their congratulations to Umno duo Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob and Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein over their promotions.
The presidents of Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS), Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP), Sabah Star and Parti Bersatu Rakyat Sabah (PBRS) lauded Ismail Sabri’s appointment as deputy prime minister, expressing hope that it will strengthen the federal cabinet line-up.
Hajiji, who is also Gabungan Rakyat Sabah chairman and state Perikatan Nasional chief, said Defence Minister Ismail Sabri’s new post and Foreign Minister Hishammuddin being accorded “senior minister” status are apt, given their vast experience.
He said the two can count on the Sabah government’s full support.
“We believe the appointments will strengthen PN, and at the same time, allow Malaysia to focus on efforts to combat the Covid-19 pandemic.”
Sabah Star leader Datuk Seri Jeffrey Kitingan said he was informed personally by Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin of the decision to appoint Ismail Sabri as the latter’s deputy.
He said Ismail Sabri has a solid track record, having held numerous important portfolios in the government, and will relieve Muhyiddin of some of his duties, especially when it comes to handling the Covid-19 pandemic.
“I have no doubt that this appointment will further strengthen the government and stabilise the political situation in the country.
“The fact that the prime minister personally called his political allies to inform us of the appointment speaks volumes about his leadership personality, which sets him apart from previous prime ministers.
“The prime minister also revealed that it took him a long time to decide on the appointment. It shows that the decision was well-considered, and not done hastily.”
SAPP’s Datuk Seri Yong Teck Lee expressed hope that the appointments will bolster the PN administration and hurry along the National Recovery Plan’s progress.
Tan Sri Arthur Joseph Kurup of Barisan Nasional component PBRS said the country needs a stable government, and that Ismail Sabri and Hishammuddin’s promotions will strengthen the ruling coalition.
PBS president Datuk Seri Maximus Ongkili, meanwhile, said the Umno pair will perform well in their elevated roles. – The Vibes, July 7, 2021
