PM says new cabinet appointments not 'reward' for support

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim today said any appointments to his upcoming cabinet will not be made as a reward in exchange for support to form a government.

Anwar said this was in line with his intention to reduce the size of the cabinet, unlike under past administrations.

"I want to reduce the size of the cabinet. I don't want to continue this extravagant manner of employing or appointing ministers as a point of reward,'' said Anwar during a press conference at the Prime Minister's Department in Putrajaya today.

"(Previously) you have 70 ministers (and deputy ministers) with special envoys... of course, we can consider one or two when it is absolutely necessary, but it should not be seen as rewarding political masters.

"I want them to support me based on my policies and my commitment to good governance and my commitment to anti-corruption and to resuscitating the economy," he added.

The previous BN-led administration under Bera MP Ismail Sabri Yaakob as prime minister saw the appointment of 31 ministers, including four senior ministers and 38 deputy ministers. This is not inclusive of special envoys appointed from among party presidents.

Further, Anwar said discussions are ongoing with Pakatan Harapan's partners in government, including BN, Gabungan Parti Sarawak, Gabungan Rakyat Sabah, as well as a planned meeting with Warisan president Shafie Apdal this afternoon.

"I think in a few days I'll be able to present the proposals made," said Anwar.

Previously, Anwar said Harapan has maintained its stance against appointing a politician convicted of corruption to the cabinet, although he added that the matter must also be discussed with their new partners.

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