Abu Bakar was sworn in together with Guar Sanji assemblyman Ridzuan Hashim and Sena assemblyman Marzita Mansor before the Raja of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Jamalullail, at Istana Arau, Bernama reported.

Two exco members – Megat Hashirat Hassan (Pauh) and Wan Zikri Afthar Ishak (Tambun Tulang) – were dropped from their positions.

Abu Bakar, who is the Kuala Perlis assemblyman, will oversee the portfolios of tourism, arts and culture as well as rural development, while Ridzuan has been assigned the portfolios of youth and sports, as well as science, technology and innovation.

Marzita will be responsible for welfare, health and entrepreneurship.

Five exco members who were reappointed for another term also took their oaths today, with some changes to their portfolios.

They are Azmir Azizan (Santan), Asrul Aimran Abd Jali (Kayang), Izizam Ibrahim (Titi Tinggi), Razali Saad (Simpang Empat) and Wan Badariah Wan Saad (Mata Ayer).

Azmir will oversee religion, education, human development and human resources, while Asrul will handle housing and local government; communications and digital. Izizam will be responsible for infrastructure, transport, and border relations.

Razali has been given the portfolio of agriculture, plantations and consumer affairs, while Wan Badariah will focus on women, family and community development; unity and the environment.

Perlis menteri besar Shukri Ramli said the appointments will remain effective until the next general election.