Muhyiddin remains positive about NRC role despite losing office
Muhyiddin Yassin views his resignation as prime minister from a positive perspective, saying he did not regret the decision to resign from the highest position in the government because it was a step made on the principles of the Federal Constitution.
The Pagoh MP, who now chairs the National Recovery Council (NRC), told Astro Awani's "Program Agenda Awani" last night that he accepted that he had to step down after losing the majority when a faction of Umno MPs withdrew their support for him.
"So I did not last long and had to fulfil my responsibility (...) to leave the post. The important thing is, this is destined by Allah, I accept this as destiny.
"But that doesn't dampen my spirit to do what I think is right. You have to do what is right, that's my guide.
"This is my main thought because what I prioritise is the people," he said.
Muhyiddin was one of the key players in the Sheraton Move that resulted in the fall of the elected Pakatan Harapan government last year.
Ultimately, due to the manner in which it took power and its various failings, the Muhyiddin administration, which at 17 months is the shortest-serving administration in Malaysia's history, was referred to as "backdoor government" and #kerajaangagal.
Muhyiddin left office with spiralling Covid-19 figures and an economy that went into recession but was appointed to the NRC post by his successor Ismail Sabri Yaakob.
Touching on his duties as chairperson of the NRC, he explained that several things need to be emphasised in ensuring the effectiveness of the council's function in an effort to restore the country.
"One thing about the formation of the council is that it has several parties and is bi-partisan. In other words, we will invite representatives of the opposition together (to give views in this council).
"So that's certainly good in terms of us reducing politicking, given the problems we have had before.
"I understand the purpose is to revive our country's economy, but politics is politics. That will probably distract from the question of our focus on reviving the country," he said.
At the same time, Muhyiddin added that the other two changes needed through the NRC are to involve the community at large and provide information transparently without any hidden intentions.
"It's not just about implementing, but who will receive the benefits or not be able to receive the benefits.
"We must understand that community participation from various levels including non-governmental organisations, professionals and others is important.
“We should have a clear plan and this should be done by the NRC openly," he said.
