MINISTER of Investment, Trade and Industry Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Aziz, has stated that any decision regarding his future political affiliations will first be discussed with Umno president, Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
Speaking to the press following his attendance at the Golf KITA 2025 charity event, Zafrul, who is also a member of Umno's Supreme Council, emphasised that he will make an official announcement after these consultations.
This statement comes amid growing speculation that Zafrul might leave Umno due to uncertainty surrounding his political career within the party.
Reports have circulated suggesting that he was approached by PKR several months ago, sparking rumours about his potential defection.
Zafrul also addressed media reports concerning the possibility of his appointment as Malaysia’s Ambassador to the United States once his term as senator ends in December.
While acknowledging the suggestions, he remarked that any such appointment would be at the discretion of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
For now, he said, his primary focus remains on his duties as Minister at the Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Industry (MITI), especially given Malaysia’s role as the ASEAN chair for this year.
Notably, former Bangi MP Ong Kian Ming had recently proposed Zafrul, alongside PKR Vice President Nurul Izzah Anwar, as potential candidates for the ambassadorship to the US.
As the political landscape shifts, all eyes are on Tengku Zafrul’s next move — whether he will reaffirm his loyalty to Umno or seek a new political home. – February 9, 2025
