KOTA KINABALU: The appointment of Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob as Prime Minister is the perfect choice to fill in the leadership vacuum following Tan Sri Muhyiddin’s resignation, says Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS).

       Its president Datuk Seri Dr Maximus Ongkili (pic) said they look forward to working with the new Prime Minister especially on the development and security needs of Sabah.

       He said PBS was also looking forward to resolving outstanding matters related to the Malaysia Agreement 1963 for Sabah and Sarawak.

       On Ismail Sabri’s leadership capabilities, he said the latter had the opportunity to exemplify his leadership skills as the deputy prime minister, senior minister, and defence minister in the past 17 months.

       Ongkili said Ismail Sabri had also played a key role in managing the ongoing battle against the Covid-19 pandemic.

       "We are confident that he will do extremely well as he takes on the job as the Prime Minister,” he said in congratulating Ismail Sabri.

       The Kota Marudu MP said that Ismail Sabri had always spoken up on the need for compliance of the MA63, as well as always supporting the development needs and demands of Sabah and Sarawak.

       Ismail Sabri will now take on the task of chairmanship of the MA63 Special Council, as the new Prime Minister.

       "Of course, the immediate task at hand for the new Prime Minister and the government is to win the fight against the deadly Covid-19 virus and achieve economic recovery as soon as possible,” Ongkili added.

       “We, in PBS, believe the new Prime Minister is ready for the task ahead," he said.