PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has refused to comment on mounting speculation of a Cabinet reshuffle, maintaining silence when pressed by reporters during a public event in Penang on Saturday.
When asked whether ministers were worried about losing their positions should a reshuffle occur, Anwar responded curtly, “Is that true?” before moving on to his next engagement. He made the brief remark after officiating the launch of the Madani Mosque Development Project in Permatang Pauh, Seberang Perai Tengah.
Also present at the event were Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek, Second Finance Minister Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan, and Penang Deputy Chief Minister I, Datuk Dr Mohamad Abdul Hamid.
Earlier, in a lighter moment, Anwar joked with members of the media, inviting them to submit their own proposed list of new Cabinet ministers for his consideration.
His silence comes amid growing indications from within his administration that a reshuffle could be on the horizon. Higher Education Minister Datuk Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir hinted that changes may take place “within two or three weeks”, adding that his own position was secondary to the broader interests of the government.
“The Prime Minister just smiled and gave a signal – because my time may be short, perhaps two or three more weeks,” Zambry quipped.
Meanwhile, Parti Amanah Negara (Amanah) president Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu emphasised that Cabinet appointments remain the sole prerogative of the Prime Minister, stressing that his party has made no demands for ministerial positions.
“For the Cabinet, it is entirely the Prime Minister’s prerogative. He may choose political figures, professionals, party members, or even individuals from outside the party,” Mohamad Sabu said at a press conference.
When asked if Amanah leaders such as Datuk Adly Zahari or Datuk Aiman Athirah might be considered, he reiterated that the decision rests entirely with the Prime Minister.
He added that Amanah has yet to hold any formal discussions with Anwar on Cabinet positions or the renewal of senators’ terms for ministers whose tenure is nearing expiry.
“The matter is fully up to the Prime Minister,” he said, adding that the party’s focus remains on preparations for the upcoming elections. - November 8, 2025
