Friday, February 17, 2006

A Major Reshuffle In Malaysia Cabinet

Finally, Prime Minister of Malaysia Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi has slected a team to his own liking! He had kept the original cabinet since he took over from Tuan Dr Mahatir with only minor adjustments. Everyone seems to be pleased with the new line up, praises from all quarters, except the Oppositions, of course. There were a few surprises, like those who lost in their bids for positions in their own parties are retained in contrary of predictions by political analysts. And there is Datuk Seri Rafidah Aziz who was in the center of the recent "AP" controversy, was widely believed to be dropped. And to everyone's surprise she retains her profolio of Minister of International Trade and Industry. In spite of the great numbers of persons involved in the reshuffle, the key positions remained unchanged. These are:
  • Internal Security
  • Foreign Affairs
  • Home Affairs
  • Defense
  • Works
  • Water and Communications
  • International Trade and Industry
  • Education.

They are all headed by the original ministers. Hence it is quite safe to say that the core policy of Malaysia ruling coalition will be pretty the same except with Datuk Seri Badawi's personal touch added.

This demonstrates that the criteria are based on ability and experience and not on political power and popularity.

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