Saifuddin said they have been having a good relationship for decades and that he had learnt a lot from the former home minister when he was appointed domestic trade and consumer affairs minister in 2018.

“I also learnt a lot from him in terms of understanding the ministry’s essential tasks and the challenges,” he said after being sworn in as a senator at Parliament House today.

Although their leadership styles were different, Saifuddin said the principles of the administration were the same.

“Of course, I have my priorities, but I will contact Hamzah soon to get some tips to understand the role and function of the ministry,” he said.

On his priorities, Saifuddin said he would look at all aspects related to each agency under the ministry.

“Among them will be the prisons department regarding the issue of overcrowding as well as the staffing for all agencies under the ministry.

“As for Rela (People’s Volunteer Corps), the presence and preparedness aspects are already good, but the logistics, support and workplace environment need to be improved,” he added.