JOHOR BARU: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob must avoid repeating the mistakes of his predecessor, says Umno veteran leader Tan Sri Shahrir Samad (pic).

       The Johor Baru division chief said Ismail Sabri already scored one point when he held a consensus with Pakatan Harapan leaders to strengthen the function of Parliament, the importance of judicial independence, institutional reforms and good governance.

       “When we look at the guidelines set by the Prime Minister, his objectives in his first 100 days are health and economic recovery. However, when we look at his Cabinet, who are the ministers in charge of such important portfolios," he said

       “There are no changes in the new Cabinet line-up. The only thing that changed is their portfolios were swapped - from taking care of vaccines, now is in charge of health, while previously in charge of health, now taking care of vaccines. And there are no changes to those responsible for our economy,” added Shahrir.

       The former Johor Baru MP said this when met after presenting 100 food baskets and giving Jalur Gemilang flags to taxi drivers here on Saturday (Aug 28).

       He questioned why the same portfolios were given to the same individuals if the new administration wants to focus and solve health and economy problems as their main objectives.

       Shahrir said that Ismail Sabri must be stern with his ministers to make sure they are able to help the government in achieving the 100-days target.

       “If a minister is found to be flaunting rules on standard operating procedures, then take action against the latter immediately," said Shahrir.

       “Ismail Sabri must also make sure that there will not be any interference from his ministers in the role and task of other ministers as problems arising from Covid-19 have been persisting for too long,” he added.

       Shahrir also said if the ministers from Umno failed in their performance, then the party would most likely put up a new team in the coming general election.

       “If these Umno leaders do not perform in executing their tasks in the present government, in my view, they should not be part of the future governing team or even as candidates,” he added.