Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak has instructed the Finance Ministry to make preparations in terms of sound financial and fiscal strategies to meet the aspirations of the people.

Najib, who is also the finance minister, suggested that the ministry officers and staff work as a team in facing the challenges of the world economy.  

“We have a heavy responsibility in facing the global and regional economic situation which demands close concentration and scrutiny.

“God willing, I believe that as a team the Finance Ministry can fulfill all my requests,” he said at the Aidilfitri reception of the ministry in Putrajaya.

Najib also extended a warm welcome to Johari Abdul Ghani who was appointed deputy finance minister last Tuesday.

He joked that as a ‘freshie’, Johari would have to be subjected to some ragging.

Najib and his wife, Rosmah Mansor, spent about an hour at the reception and chatted with guests and staff.

Upon their arrival at 1.15pm, they were received by Second Finance Minister Ahmad Husni Hanadzlah and the deputy ministers, Chua Tee Yong and Johari.

Chief secretary to the government Ali Hamsa, Treasury secretary-general Mohd Irwan Serigar Abdullah and Public Services Department director-general Mohd Zabidi Zainal also attended the

reception.

- Bernama