PETALING JAYA: The person appointed as the next prime minister must prioritise the people's welfare at all times and be backed by a strong Cabinet, say Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia leaders.

       Bersatu deputy president and Tambun MP Datuk Seri Ahmad Faizal Azumu said the new prime minister must put the rakyat's interests first at all times.

       “Health and economy must be on top of his list.

       “The party leadership has made a decision and we have agreed unanimously to support this candidate who we believe can bring together not only the parties in Perikatan but also be a unifier for everyone to work together,” said Ahmad Faizal.

       Bersatu supreme council member Datuk Seri Redzuan Yusof said the candidate must be able to form a strong Cabinet.

       “Bersatu’s decision of the candidate for ninth prime minister is a consensus. The new prime minister, when appointed by the King, must have a strong Cabinet to back him up.

       “He cannot seem to be weak and he must also be wise to choose a strong deputy,” Redzuan said when contacted.

       The two were commenting on what they looked for when they named the candidate in their statutory declarations which were sent to Istana Negara before 4pm.

       Bersatu is said to have decided to unanimously support Umno vice-president Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob as the next prime minister.