By Chris Lidom and Karen Bong
GEDONG, Oct 6: A Cabinet reshuffle will not be happening any time soon for the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government.
Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg affirmed this as the government is focused on the transformation of Sarawak.
Responding to a question about the possibility of a minor Cabinet reshuffle, Abang Johari expressed his lack of knowledge on the matter, stating firmly, “Where did you hear that? I have no idea. But no.”
He highlighted this during a press conference held after inspecting a paddy plantation project at Lubok Punggor.
Following GPS’ landslide victory, securing 76 out of 82 seats in the 12th State Election in 2021, winning 76 out of 82 seats, Abang Johari inaugurated a diverse Cabinet consisting of 10 ministers and 26 assistant ministers.
When questioned about the performance of the GPS government, Abang Johari emphasised their commendable performance, noting, “That’s why the Federal Cabinet requested me to give a briefing to them.”
Acknowledging Sarawak’s recent economic progress and advancements, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had requested Premier to provide a briefing on Sarawak’s new economy to chief ministers, menteris besar of other states, and Members of Parliament (MPs) on Sept 16 during the first unity government Cabinet meeting held for the first time in Sarawak in conjunction with Malaysia Day celebration.
Abang Johari was aware of rumours circulating since mid-August regarding a potential Federal Cabinet reshuffle, sparked by the vacancy for the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister’s position following the passing of the late Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub on July 23.
However, on Oct 3, Anwar dismissed rumours of a Cabinet reshuffle that was supposed to be announced on Oct 4.
During a press briefing at the closing ceremony of the 18th Khazanah Megatrends Forum in Kuala Lumpur, Anwar clarified that the matter was not on the agenda during his weekly pre-Cabinet meeting with the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
Anwar has led the unity government for nearly 11 months now. — DayakDaily
