Expect cabinet to be a mix of politicians and technocrats

Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin's cabinet is expected to be a blend of politicians and technocrats, according to sources.

For example, a source speculated that the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Finance could be helmed by professionals although there is no confirmation of this.

"For health, it is almost certain that a doctor would be appointed. Whereas for finance, it could be a person with vast experience in the banking sector.

"The list of candidates has been vetted by both the MACC and police.

"So, it would be a clean cabinet as promised by the prime minister, where the members have no cases against them," the source told Malaysiakini this afternoon.

On the same note, the source claimed that some appointments could be described as unexpected, such as the possible inclusion of mufti (religious scholars).

"As for politicians, it would follow the hierarchy.

"Meaning in the case of Umno, since the president (Ahmad Zahid Hamidi) has decided not to be included, it would go to the second in command (deputy president Mohamad Hasan) and so forth," the source added.

Muhyiddin, who had an audience with the Yang di-Pertuan Agong at Istana Negara in Kuala Lumpur this morning, is scheduled to announce the line-up this evening.

Meanwhile, Zahid, in a statement, said Umno and BN had submitted a list of potential candidates to the prime minister to consider.

"Priority is given based on hierarchy to those who hold main positions in Umno and BN. We have also suggested new faces, young leaders, professionals and technocrats from BN and 'Friends of BN'.

"Umno and BN have the utmost confidence in the prime minister to appoint from a pool of leaders who have the calibre, are clean and with integrity,” he added.

100-day challenge

The Umno president also said the Perikatan Nasional (PN) government must showcase a huge impact in the first 100 days.

"The people are watching. PN must convince the people of its direction and policies... The rakyat wants to see immediate changes.

"We are not bound by Pakatan Harapan's manifesto, so it would be easier for us to focus on issues and solutions. The people want to see Tabung Haji and Felda revived.

"The welfare of settlers, farmers, fisherfolk and small business owners must be looked into. Efforts must be taken to dispense aid for the people to face the high cost of living," he added.

Apart from this, Zahid said the government must also look into the plight of students at all levels.

On the same note, the Umno president said justice must be served in the case of firefighter Muhammad Adib Mohd Kassim, who was killed during the Seafield temple riot, and other related issues. - Mkini