Akmal wishes Zafrul luck after acceptance into PKR, says 'warning given'

Akmal wishes Zafrul luck after acceptance into PKR, says 'warning given'


Published: Aug 9, 2025 2:57 PM
Updated: 5:00 PM


Umno Youth chief Dr Akmal Saleh today launched a thinly veiled attack on PKR and its newest recruit, Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz, following the latter’s announcement of his PKR membership.

In a Facebook post, Akmal (above) sardonically thanked PKR for “showing us Umno grassroots the true meaning of this unity government”, while asserting that a “warning” was already given with regard to Zafrul’s defection from Umno to PKR.

“A warning was given, but it was still carried out. Good luck, Zafrul - hopefully the PKR grassroots can accept you. We’ll meet later at the election,” Akmal posted.

Earlier, Bersatu Youth information chief Harris Idaham Rashid had also accused PKR of disregarding Umno’s warning by accepting the investment, trade, and industry minister as a member, claiming it reflects growing tensions within the Pakatan Harapan-BN alliance.

In a statement, Harris said the move puts the loyalty and camaraderie between PKR and Umno to the test.


Membership announcement

PKR secretary-general Fuziah Salleh confirmed yesterday that Zafrul has been accepted into the party, after he announced his membership while visiting the Malaysia booth at the Osaka World Expo in Japan.

Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz


She told Malaysiakini when contacted that the party approved his membership application during a central leadership committee meeting on July 26.

Sin Chew Daily yesterday reported Zafrul telling reporters that he is now a PKR member, and that he had applied for membership with the party’s Ampang division.

However, the report noted that he did not disclose whether he was holding any party position.


Chronology of events

Zafrul is a senator who was first appointed in March 2020 and again in December 2022.

His term expires in December this year, with no possibility of reappointment, which means he would have to relinquish his cabinet position.

Zafrul had also contested the Kuala Selangor seat in the 2022 general election, but lost to current Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad in a four-cornered fight.

He tendered his resignation from Umno and announced his intention to join PKR on May 30 this year.

The announcement had triggered speculation of an impending cabinet reshuffle, as it meant Umno would have one fewer representative in the cabinet.

The move also drew backlash from Umno leaders who criticised Zafrul and warned PKR that such “poaching” could strain relations between the two parties.

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I suspect TZ is a covert rep for the rulers, which might explain why he's being continuously parachuted into ministerial positions (and parties).