PETALING JAYA: As the incoming Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob (pic) must ensure political stability and unite the people as the nation moves forward, say several leaders in their congratulatory messages.

       Former international trade and industry minister and Gombak MP Datuk Seri Azmin Ali expressed confidence in Ismail Sabri’s leadership as the Prime Minister.

       "I'm confident that Ismail Sabri will continue the efforts to build a stronger and wiser Malaysia," he tweeted.

       Sembrong MP Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein congratulated Ismail Sabri and stressed the importance of political stability at the moment.

       "This is to enable the country to prioritise efforts in addressing the Covid-19 pandemic, ensure economic recovery and ensuring the people's harmony," tweeted Hishammuddin.

       Muar MP Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman also congratulated Ismail Sabri over his appointment as Prime Minister, adding that he will remain as a productive Opposition MP to provide check and balances to the new government.

       "I will continue serving as an Opposition MP to bring forward policy ideas and check-and-balances on every government decision," tweeted Syed Saddiq.

       Masjid Tanah MP and former deputy minister Datuk Mas Ermieyati Samsuddin congratulated Ismail Sabri and thanked Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin for his sacrifices as the previous prime minister.

       "Thank you to Muhyiddin for your unwavering duty and sacrifices," Mas Ermieyati tweeted.

       Similar congratulatory messages were also posted by former youth and sports minister Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican.

       "Congratulations to Ismail Sabri who was chosen as the ninth Prime Minister of Malaysia," tweeted Reezal.

       On Friday (Aug 20), Istana Negara announced the appointment of Ismail Sabri as the ninth Prime Minister of Malaysia, following a meeting that lasted for more than two-hours with the Malay Rulers.

       Ismail Sabri will be sworn in as the ninth Prime Minister on Saturday (Aug 21) at 2.30 at Istana Negara.

       He will be replacing Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, who had served as prime minister for 17-months under the Perikatan Nasional government that took over from the previous Pakatan Harapan administration in March 2020.