[UPDATED] Independent no more: PKR confirms Maszlee’s membership

KUALA LUMPUR – PKR information chief Datuk Seri Shamsul Iskandar Md Akin has confirmed rumours that Simpang Renggam MP Maszlee Malik is joining the party’s ranks tomorrow.

Earlier today, an event poster showing Maszlee and PKR president Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim clad in attire bearing the party logo made rounds on social media, drawing speculation that the former education minister is ending his stint as an independent lawmaker.

Maszlee had entered politics as a Bersatu member where he won Simpang Renggam in the 2018 general election, but was later sacked following the Sheraton Move last year that saw the collapse of the Pakatan Harapan administration.

Shamsul told The Vibes that Maszlee will officially join the opposition party tomorrow, adding that his presence in PKR will strengthen calls for reform, while his experience as education minister will bring new perspectives to the party.

“We applaud Maszlee’s decision to join PKR.

“Notwithstanding PKR’s defeat in the recent Melaka polls, this will send a clear signal that many more understand the party’s struggles and continued pursuit for reforms.

“As an academician and former education minister, Maszlee is currently chairman of the parliamentary select committee for education. He will bring new perspectives and solutions on how we can take this nation forward through youth empowerment and by improving the standard of education.”

While Maszlee has yet to make an official statement on the matter, it is believed that he will hold a special Facebook live session tomorrow at 4pm. – The Vibes, November 26, 2021