PUTRAJAYA (May 21): Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad today addressed the staff of the Prime Minister's Department at Dataran Putra, Perdana Putra Building here, his first after returning to helm the country following the Pakatan Harapan coalition’s electoral victory on May 9.

Dr Mahathir arrived at Dataran Perdana at 8.20 am, 10 minutes ahead of schedule, and was applauded as he walked onto the stage.

“I am grateful to be able to once again play a role in the administration of this blessed country,” said the prime minister at the outset of his address.

Also present were the Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Dr Ali Hamsa and Public Service Department director-general Tan Sri Zainal Rahim Seman.