Is Tengku Zafrul’s political maneuvering a bid to stay in Anwar’s government?

Is Tengku Zafrul’s political maneuvering a bid to stay in Anwar’s government?






MINISTER of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz has sparked speculation after expressing his intent to leave UMNO, a party he has been part of since the 1990s, with rumors swirling that he may join PKR to secure his political future in the Anwar Ibrahim-led Unity Government.


The Selangor-born technocrat, who transitioned from a prominent corporate figure as CIMB Group’s CEO to a political heavyweight, has been a key player in Malaysia’s economic management.


Appointed Finance Minister in March 2020 under then-Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, Tengku Zafrul has since served under three prime ministers, showcasing his adaptability and value in government.


His current role in MITI has seen significant achievements, including attracting major foreign investments in semiconductors and high-tech industries. However, his political journey has hit turbulence.

After losing the Kuala Selangor parliamentary seat to Pakatan Harapan’s Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad in the 15th General Election (PRU15) under the Barisan Nasional ticket, Tengku Zafrul’s influence within UMNO has been questioned.

While he lacks the grassroots clout of traditional UMNO leaders, his professional credentials and clean image have made him an asset to the party and the government.

Recent reports of his potential defection to PKR have fueled debates about his motives.

Sources suggest that with his Senate term nearing its end in 2025, Tengku Zafrul is determined to remain in Anwar’s cabinet, possibly at any cost.

UMNO President Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi confirmed discussions with him, advising against hasty decisions. “He is still an UMNO member until now,” Zahid said.

Critics within UMNO, including MKT member Datuk Dr Mohd Puad Zarkashi, have slammed Tengku Zafrul, urging him not to treat the party as “persinggahan sementara dalam kerjaya politik” or a temporary stop-over in politics.

Meanwhile, his deputy in Kota Raja, Abdul Raof Mokhtar, lamented the potential loss, calling him “a leader with integrity” whose exit would dent UMNO’s image.

Some argue that joining PKR could secure Tengku Zafrul a stronger foothold in the Unity Government, especially given UMNO’s uncertain trajectory amid internal strife and a struggle to regain Malay voter trust.

For now, Tengku Zafrul has not made-up his mind on his next move, but he seems to be resolved to stay relevant in the corridors of power.—Mar 16, 2025

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