King Selects Ismail Sabri Yaakob As Malaysia’s 9th Prime Minister

It’s official – Ismail Sabri Yaakob has just been named the 9th Prime Minister of Malaysia.

Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, who has been meeting with fellow rulers, is set to make the announcement soon.

Here are some known facts:

• This makes Ismail Malaysia’s 3rd prime minister in 3 years.
• Since he was deputy prime minister under Muhyiddin Yassin, the ruling coalition is expected to be kept intact.
• This also marks the return of UMNO – whom the people voted out during the 2018 general elections.
• The 61-year-old was able to secure the backing of 114 out of 220 lawmakers – slightly more than a simple majority..
• Ismail is scheduled to be sworn in tomorrow (Saturday, 21st August) in a tradition-steeped ceremony in the National Palace.
• With experience in law, he previously led the youth and sports, domestic trade, agriculture and rural and regional development ministries.

Sources: SCMP, The Star.