Peter Minos said Karim has been “effective” in his dual ministerial roles, the Borneo Post reported.

Karim is the state minister for youth, sports and entrepreneur development as well as tourism, creative industry and performing arts.

Minos cited Karim’s role in helping Sarawak reclaim the title of overall champions at the Malaysia Games (Sukma) last year and the many initiatives implemented to woo four million tourists to the state last year.

“As a minister, he has done wonders. Having a lot of energy and initiative, Karim does a lot of good for Sarawak and he excels in whatever he does,” he was quoted as saying.

Minos said that PBB could not afford to lose an “effective and hardworking” minister.

Last night, Sarawak premier Abang Johari Openg confirmed that Karim would retain his ministerial posts despite the outcome of the PBB elections, saying there would be no Cabinet reshuffle in the state government.

Karim secured only 669 votes, placing him fifth out of the six candidates vying for the four vice-presidents’ posts.

He later said that it was up to Abang Johari to decide on his Cabinet posts and said he was willing to step down if required.