Malaysia's new prime minister Muhyiddin Yassin spent his first day in office on Monday in meetings with the Chief Secretary to the Government and various agency heads to discuss his new administration, as state governments across the nation faced questions about their validity following recent political realignments and rumours of party-hopping.

On Monday evening he gave his first speech, saying he would appoint cabinet members who are clean and have integrity.

“The government under my leadership will prioritise efforts to increase the integrity and good practices by government. This includes efforts to stamp out corruption and abuse of power and improving enforcement and the relevant laws, regulations and practices,” Muhyiddin said.

Muhyiddin, the previous home affairs minister, was picked by the country’s king to replace ex-premier Mahathir, whose shock resignation came amid claims of political skulduggery that tore apart his administration.