No decision yet from Azmin on trading in MB post for cabinet

Mohamed Azmin Ali has said he would let go of his Selangor menteri besar post if he decides to take on his cabinet appointment, but noted that a decision has still not been reached.

Speaking to the media today, he said met with Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad over being named economic affairs minister in Harapan's maiden cabinet.

However he was tight-lipped on his decision, and said he will discuss the matter with the Selangor sultan.

“Until today, I am still Selangor MB, and if the decision is made for me to assist the federal government, I will step down from the menteri besar post,” he said.

Yesterday, Mahathir surprised the nation when he unveiled his first round of ministerial posts, which included Azmin's name.

Azmin had responded agreeing that he could not simultaneously hold both a federal ministerial and the Selangor menteri besar posts.

Bernama meanwhile reported Azmin saying he would seek an audience with Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah soon to inform him of the new task assigned by the prime minister before making an official decision on his position.

"An explanation on the latest development to the sultan of Selangor is very important as it involved the post of menteri besar, and any changes should be done in order and in an orderly manner,” he told reporters after the meeting with Mahathir that lasted almost an hour.

Using S'gor's success

Azmin said Mahathir's cabinet announcement took him by surprise.

“It came as a surprise to me, even though the PM had (previously) indicated to me briefly that he wanted me to play a role.

“But he didn't mention specifically (what form it would take) until the announcement came in yesterday,” said Azmin.

Elaborating further, he thanked Mahathir for placing his trust on him to head a ministry of such importance.

“He has explained the role that I am required to play, and my responsibilities. And he has asked me to get back to him on some suggestions to ensure efforts to help and plan the strategy to uplift Malaysia's economy.

“He also said Selangor's success can be the basis for me to help other states develop.

“It is very crucial for the new ministry to develop other states apart from Penang, Selangor, Johor,” he said.

Bernama additionally reported Azmin, when asked on the first thing he would do if he accepts the cabinet post, saying he would review all mega projects approved by the previous government.

He said priority would be given to projects that would benefit the people directly such as water supply and public housing where the Selangor government has the expertise and experience. -Mkini