Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin has pledged to make cost of living, healthcare, and education among his priorities as head of government.

"I understand what the people want is a caring government that is efficient in solving the people's problems.

"You need money to buy daily necessities, books and schooling needs for your children, to pay the water and electricity bills, rent, car and housing loans, and other needs to support a family life," he said in a televised address to the nation tonight.

He added that he would ensure affordable quality healthcare, and use his six years of experience as education minister to raise education levels to match those of developed nations.

Muhyiddin, who has been dogged by a 2010 remark that he was "Malay first", also said that he was a prime minister for all Malaysians.

"I am a prime minister for all Malaysians, from Perlis to Sabah. Saudara (friend), whether you are Malay, Chinese, Indian, Sikh, Iban, Kadazan, Dusun, Murut, Orang Asli or any race or ethnicity, I am your prime minister, saudara," he said.

He pleaded with the people to give him strong support to lead the country, and use his 40 years of experience in politics and government to drive Malaysia towards greatness.

He also asked for some time to draw up a blueprint for the government and country, which he will reveal soon.

The Pagoh MP was sworn in yesterday as the head of a new Bersatu-BN-PAS coalition dubbed Perikatan Nasional. He is also being supported as prime minister by Sarawak's GPS coalition.

However, the exact number of MPs loyal to Muhyiddin and his rival Dr Mahathir Mohamad is uncertain due to shifting loyalties but both claim to have the majority.

The prime minister's support will only be tested when Parliament reconvenes.