PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has confirmed that the Economy Ministry will not be dissolved following the resignation of Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli, who officially steps down on Tuesday (17 June).
An interim minister will be appointed to temporarily oversee the ministry's functions.
"There is no need for any reshuffle at the moment and I wish Rafizi all the best," Anwar told reporters on Monday (16 June) after launching Energy Asia 2025.
"He had served very well as the Economy Minister. I will now have to decide which minister will carry out the responsibilities."
Anwar also extended his appreciation to Rafizi for his exemplary service since taking office under the Unity Government.
"I extend my well wishes to brother Rafizi, who has served with great dedication as the Economy Minister. Any replacement or decision will be made at the appropriate time," he said.
Rafizi, the Pandan MP, previously confirmed that he would be on leave until 16 June, having submitted his resignation effective 17 June. In a Facebook post dated 13 June, he revealed he had returned to the office briefly to complete outstanding work and pack his belongings.
His decision follows a loss to Nurul Izzah Anwar in the PKR deputy presidency race. Rafizi had earlier said he would step down from both party and Cabinet roles should he lose, vowing to return to grassroots activism.
Commenting on the ongoing development of the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK13), Anwar clarified that it remains under the purview of the Economic Planning Unit (EPU), which acts as the main secretariat collecting input from various ministries before presentation to the Cabinet.
"The 13th Malaysia Plan is the work of the Cabinet, with the Economic Planning Unit (EPU) serving as its secretariat. Many changes are taking place, especially given the current economic conditions, so figures and policies are being adjusted accordingly," he said.
When asked whether Rafizi's resignation had been formally accepted, Anwar responded that the effective date had not yet arrived.
"Give some space, why ask me if I have accepted. He is still on leave and the day hasn't arrived yet," he remarked.
Anwar also addressed speculation surrounding Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, who is on leave until 3 July.
Nik Nazmi tendered his resignation effective 4 July after failing to retain his PKR vice-presidency, though he has denied rumours that he or other losing candidates plan to withdraw support for the Prime Minister.
"I will always wait and give chance. I had given my views that if can, he should continue \[as minister]," said Anwar.
He added: "Nik Nazmi's status has not yet been decided. I always give \[people] a chance to reflect, and then I'll give my views. But he is still on leave, so let's give him space." - June 16, 2025
