SHAH ALAM, May 31 – In a major political shake-up, Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz has announced his resignation from UMNO and his decision to join Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR), marking a pivotal realignment within Malaysia’s political landscape.
The announcement, made earlier tonight, comes in the wake of two high-profile resignations from the Cabinet. Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli and Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad have both tendered their resignations and are currently serving their notice periods. Rafizi’s official last day is set for June 17, while Nik Nazmi is expected to step down on July 4.
Tengku Zafrul, who once served as an UMNO Supreme Council member and was the party’s Kota Raja division chief, ends nearly 30 years of political affiliation with UMNO. His move to PKR is seen as a strategic repositioning amid growing shifts in the political dynamics of the ruling coalition.
“I have officially resigned from UMNO,” Tengku Zafrul stated. “I believe the values and direction of PKR better align with my vision for Malaysia’s economic resilience and inclusive growth.”
Political observers note that Tengku Zafrul’s transition to PKR could have wider implications for party alliances and Cabinet composition, especially with key portfolios now left vacant or in transition.
As the nation braces for a possible Cabinet reshuffle, Tengku Zafrul’s defection may further signal a period of realignment and recalibration within Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s unity government.
