PETALING JAYA: Barisan Nasional ministers must work closely and foster mutual understanding with their peers in the Cabinet to strengthen the unity government, says Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
The Deputy Prime Minister said he took the opportunity before yesterday’s Cabinet meeting to spend some time with Barisan’s Cabinet representatives.
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“I hope that all who have been given the responsibility will form effective collaboration, mutual understanding and close cooperation with their Cabinet colleagues to better explain the government’s policies and strategies in our pursuit of national development,” he said in a Facebook post.
There are currently seven Umno MPs in the Cabinet following the appointment of party vice-president Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani as Plantation and Commodities Minister.
Ahmad Zahid, who is the Barisan chairman and Umno president, said the coalition’s ministers must carry out their duties with utmost dedication.
“May all Barisan ministers play their role appropriately to strengthen the unity government and empower the Malaysia Madani agenda,” he added.
In MELAKA, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh described the new Cabinet line-up as a solid combination that would further strengthen the administration of the unity government.
He said the change of portfolios and addition of new ministries would drive the government’s agenda to bring prosperity to the people.
“Congratulations to the ministers and deputy ministers from all parties who will be the backbone in strengthening the existing government,” he told reporters after attending a dinner with Melaka educators on Tuesday night.