The state government is ready to amend the laws on the formation of the Kedah government to allow the term of office of the prime minister, menteri besar and chief minister to be limited to two terms.

Menteri Besar Mukhriz Mahathir said the matter would be discussed at the state executive council (exco) level to decide on the proposed implementation for the purpose of reforming the political system.

"Actually, this matter has been discussed when formulating the Pakatan Harapan manifesto, so it is not new. So, we welcome the proposal because it can give new people with fresher ideas a chance," he said after launching the Bersatu Jerlun Division delegates conference, here today.

He said this when asked to comment on Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad's statement when tabling the 11th Malaysia Plan mid-term review in Dewan Rakyat on the proposal to limit the period of service of the prime minister, chief minister and chief minister for two terms.

Mukhriz, who is also Bersatu deputy president, said he hoped that every change among the top leaders in the government would not affect existing policies as it would cost time and resources.

"I hope there is a continuation if a change takes place. Don’t just switch and change policies just because the menteri besar changes, it should not happen as policies are not meant for three, four years but 10, 20, 30 years," he said.

Meanwhile, denying rumours about the cancellation of the construction of the Pendang Hospital, he said the federal government was ready to continue the construction of the hospital despite facing financial constraints.

Asked about the issue of the new official car of the menteri besar going viral on social media recently, Mukhriz said he decided to dispose of some old cars owned under the name of the menteri besar’s office.

"Many old vehicles are kept, just stored away and many were damaged and cannot be used. So, I decided that any cars that were too old should be done away with and replaced with a brand new foreign brand put together in Malaysia.

"We replaced them with a hybrid car, using battery which is not too pricey. In this way, I think we prove to the people we are concerned about the environment. We did away with two cars and replaced them with one car, so we don’t spend too much,’’ he added.

- Bernama