Rafizi Hints at Possible Exit, Urges Policy Continuity Beyond Personal Roles

Rafizi Hints at Possible Exit, Urges Policy Continuity Beyond Personal Roles

20 May 2025 • 6:30 PM MYT


Kamran
A freelance content creator

Image Credit: Malay Mail


Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli has subtly signaled that his time in government might not be permanent, suggesting a readiness to step away from his Cabinet position in the near future. While delivering remarks at the "JS-SEZ Partners Dialogue: Advancing Facilitation" event in Kuala Lumpur, he reflected on the transient nature of political appointments, implying that leadership roles, including his own, are not meant to last indefinitely.


Although he refrained from making any direct announcement regarding his resignation, Rafizi emphasized that sound policies must not be dependent on individual leaders or specific administrations. Instead, he advocated for long-term continuity in economic planning, highlighting the importance of institutional resilience beyond the tenure of any single minister.


His comments came amid growing speculation about his political future, particularly following reports from two weeks earlier that he had voiced dissatisfaction with the internal electoral system of his party, PKR. According to those reports, Rafizi had expressed a desire to resign during a post-meeting gathering with his supporters, citing concerns over what he considered an unfair party election framework.


During the event attended by Johor Menteri Besar Onn Hafiz Ghazi, Rafizi addressed concerns about the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), particularly on whether progress might be disrupted by changes in ministerial leadership. He reassured that the JS-SEZ initiative is too strategically vital for the country to be derailed by such transitions. Based on his administrative experience, he expressed hope that key initiatives like this would continue uninterrupted, regardless of who holds the ministerial portfolio.


The Economy Minister’s remarks also acknowledged the recurring discussions surrounding potential Cabinet reshuffles and leadership changes—conversations that have reportedly been ongoing since before the 2025 PKR party elections. While he acknowledged these concerns, Rafizi maintained his stance that national policy must be structured to withstand shifts in political leadership.


By underscoring the value of institutional continuity over individual influence, Rafizi appeared to be laying the groundwork for a smooth transition, should his departure materialize. Though no timeline or decision has been officially confirmed, his recent comments have reignited public discourse over his future role in government, especially as the country moves forward with major economic projects like the JS-SEZ.


Information Source: Astro Awani