KUALA LUMPUR, April 3 (Bernama) -- Leaders gave new Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak high hopes to navigate the country out of the economic turmoil and live up to the aspirations of the people.
Science, Technology and Innovation Minister, Datuk Dr Maximus Ongkili, who is also deputy president of Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) hoped Najib's administration would focus on the problem of illegal immigrants in Sabah and develop rural areas of Sabah and Sarawak to be on par with those in Peninsula Malaysia.
"Najib is faced with high expectations but I believe with the support of all in BN, other leaders, and the people he will succeed," he said.
International Trade and Industry Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin hoped Malaysia would soar to greater heights under Najib's leadership.
"We hope he will not only continue and enhance the efforts of his predecessors but also live up to the expectations of the people, who want Malaysia to prosper and become an advanced country by 2020," he said after Najib was sworn-in as prime minister at Istana Negara here Friday.
Muhyiddin, who is also Deputy Umno President, said Umno leaders had pledged their undivided support for Najib.
Unity, Arts, Culture and Heritage Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal said Najib's pledge that he would be a leader for all would hold him in good stead.
"He has not neglected the people of Sabah and Sarawak and he will always look into their requests.
"Foreign leaders and corporate figures have acknowledged Najib's capabilities and talent to take the county to greater success," said Shafie, who is also Umno vice-president.
Education Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein said he was confident that Najib would demonstrate his leadership qualities in leading the party and the government.
"Now that he is the prime minister, we will see his strengths in tackling the problems faced by the people.
"He has shown us his respect and loyalty for his leader and this should be emulated by young leaders who seemed to be in a hurry to jostle for higher posts," said Hishammuddin, who is also Umno vice-president.
Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the power transition was accepted by all and Islamic activists should assist Najib in pursuing the national agenda.
"I hope Islamic leaders and activists will join forces to help Najib realise the agenda and resolve religious disputes, racial disharmony, and the faltering economy," said Ahmad Zahid, who is also Umno vice-president.
Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Dr Rais Yatim said he was confident that the country would leapfrog in its development strides and make marked changes as Najib inherited his father's (Tun Abdul Razak) leadership traits.
"I was fortunate as I had served under the late Tun Abdul Razak and now I am working under his son. I will be able to witness the changing times. We should give him all the support he needs," he said.
Agriculture and Agro-based Industries Minister Datuk Mustapa Mohamed said Najib was the best person to helm the country based on his ability and experience in many fields.
"We are all spirited to continue serving the nation and we are confident he will further develop the country," said the Umno supreme council member.
Meanwhile, Pahang Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Adnan Yaakob in describing Najib as capable, compassionate, attentive and a quick thinker, said it was also timely for the prime minister to concentrate on instilling solidarity in the people with the 'One Malaysia' concept.
Adnan said appointment of the Kuala Lipis-born new prime minister was also a matter of pride for the people of Pahang.
"I believe that he will have a soft spot for Pahang but not to the extent of neglecting other states" he added.
Perak Menteri Besar, Datuk Dr. Zambry Abdul Kadir, said he was confident the principles of consultation practised by Najib would guide the country towards attaining the goals of Wawasan 2020.