Najib Thanks Ex-Senate President Abu Zahar, Welcomes New President Vigneswaran

KUALA LUMPUR, April 26 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak today expressed his appreciation for Tan Sri Abu Zahar Ujang who completed his term of office as the president of the Dewan Negara yesterday.

In a post on his Facebook account, Najib described Abu Zahar as an individual highly respected for his leadership and assertiveness that have accentuated the role and prestige of the Dewan Negara.

"I wish Tan Sri happy retirement, and thank him for his excellent service as president of the (upper) house," he said.

Abu Zahar, 72, was elected as the 16th president of the Dewan Negara on April 26, 2010, to succeed Datuk Wong Foon Meng whose term of office ended on April 12, 2010.

In his post, Najib also welcomed the election of Datuk S.A. Vigneswaran as the 17th president of the Dewan Negara to succeed Abu Zahar.

The MIC vice-president took his oath of office today before Dewan Negara deputy president Datuk Seri Abd Halim Abd Samad.

- BERNAMA