PUTRAJAYA: State leaders are looking forward to working with incoming Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

       Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Hasni Mohammad expressed confidence in Ismail Sabri’s ability to manage the pandemic and revive the economy as he has been spearheading the Covid-19 technical committee.

       “Our current challenges involve managing the pandemic. I am sure as Prime Minister he will be able to do much more and produce a better result,” he said when contacted.

       Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, who is Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) chairman, said the state government fully supports Ismail Sabri and looks forward to a cohesive and fruitful state-federal working relationship.

       “We will continue to persistently pursue all issues with regards to Sabah’s rights, needs and priorities,” he said.

       Sarawak Deputy Chief Minister Tan Sri James Masing called on MPs to put aside their differences and get behind the new Prime Minister.

       Offering his congratulations to Ismail Sabri, he said the new premier had a heavy task ahead of him to unite divided lawmakers into a solid force to battle Covid-19.

       Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Sulaiman Md Ali said the state has confidence in Ismail Sabri’s experience and credentials in leading the country and was confident that the state would benefit from his premiership.

       “It’s important for the state administration to be strong and united to resolve the hardships faced by the people,” he said.

       Pahang Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail said seeing Ismail Sabri as Prime Minister is a source of pride for the people of Pahang, where he was born and currently serves as Bera MP.

       Perak Mentri Besar Datuk Saarani Mohamad congratulated Ismail Sabri on his appointment, adding, “The state government will support and work with the Prime Minister.”

       Saarani, who is also state Barisan Nasional chairman, said the coalition was confident Ismail Sabri would restore political stability and redirect all focus to combat the pandemic. He urged all parties to take heed of the King’s call to stop the political polemics.