Pak Lah gives full backing to Najib

The Malaysian Insider

By Neville Spykerman

PUTRAJAYA, April 1 - In his last Cabinet meeting today, Datuk Seri Abdullah Badawi told his ministers to back Datuk Seri Najib Razak as the new prime minister.

He also requested the Cabinet and Najib to continue with the policies he had initiated in his five-and-a-half-years as prime minister.

But he promised the Cabinet not to interfere in the running of the next administration.

"Pak Lah told us he will be available to advise but does not intent to interfere," said Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein.

The education minister, who was speaking to the press as he was leaving the Prime Minister's Department, said today's Cabinet meeting, which was Pak Lah's last, was cordial and civil.

Hishammuddin said Pak Lah had spoken of the things close to his heart, including unity, education and human development.

"He also encouraged each of us," he said.

He said the meeting was very civil and reflected Pah Lah's character.

Information Minister Datuk Ahmad Shabery Cheek said Malaysians could be proud that the transition was happening in a smooth manner rather than through a power grab with street demonstrations.

"It was a good meeting and Pak Lah was cheerful throughout.

"He asked us to continue supporting Datuk Seri Najib Razak and the new
cabinet line up."