Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad has stressed that no government posts will be offered to former Umno minister Mustapa Mohamed, who has now joined Bersatu.

Mahathir said it was the policy of the Pakatan Harapan government not to offer posts for a certain period of time to any former Umno leader.

"They must clean themselves from the previous government’s practices and (they) will see a certain period of time pass (before they can hold any posts)," he told reporters after meeting Kelantan Harapan leaders at a hotel in Kota Bharu today.

Also present were the prime minister's wife, Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali, Amanah president Mohamad Sabu and Kelantan Harapan chairperson Husam Musa.

Mahathir also explained that Harapan welcomed any Umno leader or member wishing to join Harapan, but they must accept the principles championed by the coalition. 

On the quantum of petroleum royalty to Kelantan, Mahathir said he was still scrutinising the matter from various angles before making a decision.

Incentives not the best option

Touching on the fate of fishermen, farmers and smallholders who would be affected during this monsoon season, the prime minister said the government would find a suitable method to assist them.

"Granting incentives as done by the previous government is not the best option, because we want them to have a way to tackle the problem," he said.

On Harapan's six months of administering the country, Mahathir said he was still unhappy with the government's performance, and that many things must be given attention such as efforts to help the people.

"If you ask me, I am definitely not satisfied, but the people appear to be happy and cheerful over the efforts we have taken especially in the endeavour to eradicate corruption," he said.

The prime minister was also confident that his cabinet ministers would always improve their performance from time to time.

"I always see them and discuss how they can solve problems and improve their performance," he said.

- Bernama