MINISTER for Investment, International Trade and Industry Tengku Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to strengthening Penang’s position as a premier investment destination.
He said this after he was conferred the Darjah Panglima Pangkuan Negeri (DPPN) award, which carries the title Dato’ Seri, in conjunction with the Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Ramli Ngah Talib’s 84th birthday celebration.
He was bestowed the award during the investiture ceremony at Dewan Sri Pinang.
“I thank the Yang di-Pertua Negeri and the state government for this honour. At the ministry, we will continue to do all we can to ensure Penang remains a preferred destination for investors in the years ahead,” Tengku Zafrul said.
Tengku Zafrul, 52, brings with him more than two decades of experience in banking and investment, which will be crucial as Malaysia tries to lower the US tariffs rate of 25% imposed on the country.
Born in Kuala Lumpur on June 25, 1973, he received his early education at SK Sri Petaling and Sekolah Menengah Bukit Bintang before attending the prestigious Malay College Kuala Kangsar (MCKK).
He later pursued A-Levels at Sherborne School in the UK.
A Selangor royalty, Tengku Zafrul holds a Bachelor’s degree with honours in Economics and Accounting from the University of Bristol, and a master’s degree in finance and management from the University of Exeter, both in the United Kingdom.
Before entering public service, he held top positions in several of Malaysia’s leading financial institutions, including serving as Group chief executive officer and executive director of CIMB Group Holdings Berhad.
Currently, Malaysia is deeply entrenched in trade negotiations with the US and for Penang, it is important as the state which is one of the country's export engines, produces millions of semiconductor chips and material for the US market.
A total of 1,530 individuals will receive state awards, medals, and honours. - July 29, 2025.
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