KUALA LUMPUR – Changes in the leadership of Pakatan Harapan (PH) component parties are expected to pave the way for a cabinet reshuffle, with analysts suggesting it could take place as early as mid-year.
Speaking to Scoop, political analyst and associate professor from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia Mazlan Ali noted that DAP had recently concluded its party elections, while PKR is set to hold its own in May.
“One of the key drivers for this reshuffle is the leadership changes within PH’s component parties, with DAP having just completed its elections and PKR’s upcoming polls in May.
“Moreover, the Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz will be completing his tenure as a senator, having reached the two-term limit. This adds to the necessity for a cabinet reshuffle,” he said when contacted by Scoop.
He added that with two years remaining until the 16th general election (GE16), now would be an appropriate time for Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to strengthen his ministerial lineup through a reshuffle.
“The prime minister wants a cabinet team that is capable of delivering results in the lead-up to GE16.
“Hence, Anwar needs time to ensure that the new cabinet can implement its plans effectively for the people.
“He wants to ensure public satisfaction with his administration so that he gains strong trust and confidence to retain power,” he said.
Previously, there had been speculation that Anwar might carry out a minor reshuffle following the recent results of DAP’s Central Executive Committee (CEC) elections.
Among the key figures in question was Deputy Finance Minister Lim Hui Ying, who ranked 31st out of 64 candidates contesting. Hui Ying is the daughter of veteran DAP leader Tan Sri Lim Kit Siang.
Meanwhile, Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reforms), M. Kulasegaran, did not defend his position in the CEC, stepping aside for new leadership.
However, on March 17, the prime minister hinted that no cabinet reshuffle would take place despite the leadership changes within DAP’s CEC for the 2025-2028 term.
Meanwhile, political analyst and associate professor from the University of Malaya’s Centre for Democracy and Elections Awang Azman Awang Pawi said that a reshuffle remains necessary due to the vacancy that will be left by Tengku Zafrul.
Tengku Zafrul is set to complete his term as a senator in December. He has also been nominated as the new Badminton Association of Malaysia president for the 2025-2029 term.
“A cabinet reshuffle is certainly needed to fill the vacancy left by Tengku Zafrul.
“In my view, Tengku Zafrul’s position could be taken over by Datuk Seri Johari Ghani, who is seen as an experienced politician from Umno,” he said.
He also noted that if Tengku Zafrul, who is rumoured to be joining PKR, follows through, it could add value to the party as it gears up for GE16.
“He represents the elite and technocratic group that transcends party lines. However, he must clarify his political direction to the grassroots of any party he wishes to join to gain wider acceptance.
“Based on his history with Umno, he may struggle to win a seat unless placed in a PKR stronghold. However, PKR itself has many long-time members who have been waiting for their turn to contest,” he added. – March 31, 2025