[UPDATED] Anwar presents deputy ministers list to Agong

KUALA LUMPUR – The prime minister’s convoy arrived at Istana Negara here shortly after 4.07pm to present the list of deputy ministers to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.

Members of the media have also gathered at the palace’s main gate since 2.30pm after Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said he is scheduled to have an audience with the king today.

At 5.22pm, more than an hour after his arrival, Anwar left the palace. Without stopping, he waved to media personnel who had been on standby.

Earlier today, Anwar told the media he hoped to announce the deputy ministers in his cabinet at 8.15pm tonight after his audience with the king.

“God willing, at 8.15pm, I will announce the names of the deputy ministers,” he said. 

Their swearing-in will take place tomorrow.

Berita Harian earlier reported that among the names of lawmakers from Pakatan Harapan who will be appointed as deputy ministers are Teo Nie Ching (Kulai MP), Liew Chin Tong (Iskandar Puteri), Steven Sim (Bukit Mertajam), Rodziah Ismail (Ampang), Wong Chen (Subang), Adam Adli Abd Halim (Hang Tuah Jaya), Chong Chieng Jen (Stampin), Young Syefura Othman (Bentong), V. Ganabatirau (Klang), and Syahredzan Johan (Bangi).

From Barisan Nasional, the names include Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan (Pontian), Datuk Mohamad Alamin (Kimanis), Datuk Mohd Shahar Abdullah (Paya Besar), Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Mohamad (Lipis), Datuk Seri Jalaluddin Alias (Jelebu), and Datuk Seri Wee Jeck Seng (Tg Piai). 

Berita Harian earlier reported that several ministries are also expected to have two deputy ministers, including the finance portfolio, which is currently helmed by Anwar.

The Bahasa Malaysia daily also said that the selection of deputy ministers will not be completed today, as the prime minister will continue talks with the leaders of parties in the government next week.

Anwar on December 2 had named 28 ministers, who took their oath of office before the king the following day. – The Vibes, December 9, 2022