Muhyiddin Yassin said Shahrizat Abdul Jalil has placed the interest of the government and party above self-interest by deciding to relinquish her post as minister of women, family and community development on April 8.

The deputy prime minister congratulated Shahrizat for making the bold decision which actually was a difficult thing to do for someone in her position.

"This is a major sacrifice from someone who is leading a party (Umno) wing," said Muhyiddin, who is also the Umno deputy president, in a statement today.

Yesterday, Shahrizat announced that she would relinquish her ministerial post on the expiry of her senatorship on April 8, but would remain as Wanita Umno head and Wanita Barisan Nasional (BN) head.

Shahrizat also pointed out that she had nothing to do with the issue on the National Feedlot Corporation (NFC) chaired by her husband Mohamad Salleh Ismail.

NONE Mohamad Salleh today pleaded not guilty at the Kuala Lumpur Sessions Court on two counts of criminal breach of trust involving RM49.7 million pertaining to the purchase of two condominium units as well as two other charges under the Companies Act.

Muhyiddin described Shahrizat's decision to relinquish her cabinet post as appropriate and should be respectd by everyone.

"Her decision to relinquish her (ministerial) post on that date is a magnanimous act driven by her responsibility to discharge the task and trust placed on her to lead the ministry during the period specified," he said.

Muhyiddin said he found that Shahrizat had always been committed in discharging her responsibilities as a cabinet minister especially in elevating the position of women in the country besides being concerned in drawing up various programmes for the needy in line with the portfolio she held.

At the same time, Muhyiddin was confident that Shahrizat would continue to contribute to national development as well as political developments through her services as Wanita Umno head.

"I also believe Shahrizat will continue to lead Wanita Umno in ensuring victory for the BN in the coming general election," he added.

Meanwile, Higher Education Minister Mohamed Khaled Nordin concurred with Muhyiddin, saying that it was probably time for Shahrizat to be together with her family in facing the challenge ahead.

- Bernama

Related stories

NFC boss claims trial to 4 charges

BN takes potshot at PKR over Shahrizat's resignation

Minister's resignation 'is just theatrics'

Stay off next polls, MCA Youth tells Shahrizat

'Cowgate' might cloud PM's reform pledges

NFC scandal mocks rule of law

What resignation? Her term expires in April

Senior NFC person expected to be charged today