KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 2 — Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi will take over the duties and functions of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister from tomorrow.
Chief Secretary to the Government and Cabinet secretary Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar said the decision was announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim at a Cabinet meeting held on November 28.
“The government would like to express its appreciation and gratitude for all the contributions and services rendered by the Honourable Datuk Ewon Benedick, MP for Penampang, throughout his tenure as entrepreneur development and cooperatives minister,” he said in a statement today.
Ewon, who is also United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (Upko) president, announced his resignation as Cabinet member last month.
According to media reports, Ewon was quoted as saying the decision was made to focus on political affairs in Sabah and strengthen Upko’s position in the state.
Meanwhile, Nanta, via a Facebook post, expressed his appreciation for Anwar and the Cabinet for trusting him to shoulder the responsibility.
He said he would be fully committed to his duties to ensure the continuity of operations and the smooth functioning of the Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Ministry (Kuskop).
Nanta also expressed his appreciation for all of Ewon’s contributions throughout his leadership of Kuskop.
“I am committed to ensuring the ministry runs smoothly and that the policies currently being implemented can continue for the benefit of entrepreneurs, SMEs (small and medium enterprises), cooperatives and the people as a whole.
“I hope to be able to work closely with all agencies, industry partners and stakeholders to ensure the smooth administration of Kuskop throughout my term in office,” Nanta said.
