Newly-designated Transport Minister Liow Tiong Lai has vowed to take up the task of searching of aircraft MH370 that disappeared three months ago.

Describing this as a new challenge, Liow said locating the aircraft would be his focus as soon as he takes over the portfolio.

"This is one of the important issues, which is to handle MH370," said Liow, who is also MCA president, in a press conference today.

Liow was designated transport minister by Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak in the cabinet reshuffle today and will be sworn in Friday.

However, Najib said that it is still not yet decided if Liow will take over the lead in the search for MH370 from acting Transport Minister Hishammuddin Hussein (right).

Liow added he was new to the ministry, and expected new challenges which he looked forward to taking up.
 
He also slammed the opposition for continually making negative comments on the government.

"The opposition always has something bad to say but the government is doing what is best for constructive development.

"In BN we are able to be inclusive and represent the voice of the people," he added.

Liow is one of 35 ministers and 27 deputy ministers in the cabinet.
 
In an analysis by Malaysiakini, a total of RM9.9 million would be spent annually to pay for the salaries of 35 ministers and 27 deputy ministers.
 
DAP's Kluang MP Liew Chin Tong had slammed the cabinet reshuffle as an unnecessary move.

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