KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 2 — Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad today thanked Maszlee Malik for his service as education minister, after the latter tendered his resignation following the prime minister’s advice.
In a brief statement, Dr Mahathir said he has yet to decide on a replacement for the post and will announce his decision soon.
“I thank him for the service he rendered during his tenure as a Cabinet minister.
“I will decide and announce his successor soon,” Dr Mahathir said.
Maszlee had earlier confirmed that he will be resigning as the education minister effective tomorrow, making him the first from Dr Mahathir’s Cabinet to go since the 14th general election.
During a special press conference here, Maszlee said he made the decision on the advice of the prime minister after meeting him earlier today.
He also said he is “returning” the post to Dr Mahathir, referring to his appointment after the prime minister dropped the education portfolio to honour the Pakatan Harapan (PH) election manifesto.
He expressed his confidence in Dr Mahathir’s leadership and loyalty to the party, adding that he understood what needed to be done, and thanked him for the opportunity to serve in the Cabinet.
