THE Ampang division of Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) has said it will leave the decision on whether Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz will contest the Ampang parliamentary seat at Malaysia’s next general election to the party’s central leadership.
Division chief Syed Ahmad Abdul Rahman Alhadad, better known as Altimet, said in a statement on Sunday that the division would not pre-empt the party’s transparent and fair selection process.
“We respect the process and will not make premature assumptions regarding the speculation,” he said, adding that PKR Ampang remains focused on strengthening its grassroots, defending public welfare, and supporting the reform agenda of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
“PKR, as a progressive party, does not bind candidacy to one’s home address, party branch or internal party position, as long as all requirements set by the Election Commission are met,” he added.
Altimet, who also serves as the state assemblyman for Lembah Jaya, stressed that PKR Ampang is open to new members from all backgrounds.
“We believe the party’s strength lies in the diversity of ideas, energy, and commitment of its members, guided by leadership that upholds strong principles,” he said.
Tengku Zafrul, currently the Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, joined PKR Ampang in May after resigning from UMNO, where he was a Supreme Council member. His move has fuelled speculation that he may contest in Ampang under the PKR banner at the 16th General Election (PRU16).
There have also been suggestions that the Ampang seat may be vacated earlier via a by-election, as Tengku Zafrul’s current term as Senator ends later this year.
The Ampang parliamentary seat is presently held by Rodziah Ismail, who has reportedly been considered for reassignment or replacement ahead of the next election. - August 10, 2025
