Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has expressed support for Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein over his appointment as Minister with Special Functions in the Prime Minister's Department, effective today.

"I support the new portfolio assigned to assist the Prime Minister in missions and special tasks to strengthen bilateral relations (with other countries) and also specific tasks that will lead to the smooth administration of the government," he said in a statement today.

Ahmad Zahid said the appointment was spot on and expressed confidence that Hishammuddin would be up to the task.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak announced the appointment in a statement today.

Najib said Hishammuddin also remains as Defence Minister. -- Bernama