Ab Rauf Calls On Melaka People To Unite As One Big Family

MELAKA, 15 Nov (Bernama) -- A day after the 16th Melaka State Election, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh has called on the people of the state to unite as one big family, setting aside any differences in views or political affiliations that may have emerged during the election.

He stressed that he was the Chief Minister for all Melakans, regardless of their political preferences.

“I am not the Chief Minister only for those who voted for me. I am the Chief Minister for all the people of Melaka, regardless of race, religion, background or political inclination,” he told reporters after taking his oath of office as the 13th Melaka Chief Minister, marking his second term, at the Office of the Yang Dipertua Negeri at Seri Negeri today.

He also reminded elected representatives of the trust and responsibility that came with the mandate entrusted to them by the people.

"To my fellow elected representatives who have received this mandate, I wish to remind you never to forget that this position is a trust, not a privilege. I also want the state administration to be more efficient and responsive,” he said.

Meanwhile, Ab Rauf announced that tomorrow, Monday (Nov 16), would be a special public holiday in Melaka.

He said the holiday was declared in conjunction with the victory of Barisan Nasional (BN) and Perikatan Nasional (PN) in the 16th Melaka State Election.

In the election held yesterday, the BN-PN coalition secured 24 seats in the State Legislative Assembly, while Pakatan Harapan (PH) won four.

Ab Rauf said the special holiday was a gesture of gratitude and appreciation to the people for giving the two coalitions the mandate to continue administering the state.

“It is a token of appreciation to all the people of Melaka who have placed their trust in us and given us the mandate to continue administering the state.

“For that reason, I am pleased to announce Monday, Nov 16, as a special public holiday for the State of Melaka,” he said.

-- BERNAMA