IPOH: All political parties should set aside their differences and work towards fighting the Covid-19 pandemic now as a new Prime Minister has been appointed, says Perak Mentri Besar Datuk Saarani Mohamad.

       “All parties need to be thoughtful and to take heed from the King’s hope for all to stop the political polemic and set aside differences for the sake of the people’s health, which is the priority,” said Saarani, who is also state Barisan Nasional, in a statement on Friday (Aug 20).

       “We hope the government will become stable to ensure political harmony and the betterment of the people,” he added.

       Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob has been chosen as the country’s ninth Prime Minister.

       The state Umno chairman said the King and Malay Rulers, in their wisdom, handled the political crisis accordingly and the appointment process reflected the voices of the MPs.

       “Perak Barisan is confident with Ismail Sabri’s experience to restore political stability, and redirecting all focus to combat the Covid-19 pandemic that has impacted the lives of the people.

       “We also appreciate Barisan chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi for agreeing to name Ismail Sabri as the candidate for the post,” he said.