![[UPDATED] PKR yet to discuss Tengku Zafrul's resignation with Umno](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fassets.nst.com.my%2Fimages%2Farticles%2FPM_at_KLIBF_1748755802.jpg&w=3840&q=100)
[UPDATED] PKR yet to discuss Tengku Zafrul's resignation with Umno
KUALA LUMPUR: PKR has not yet held discussions with its unity government partner, Umno, regarding the resignation of Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.
Its president and Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, said the party respects Tengku Zafrul's decision and will consult Umno on the next steps.
"Tengku Zafrul is a minister who has carried out his duties well. Many of our investments, worth hundreds of billions, have been managed through his efforts via Matrade, the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry (Miti) and the current government.
"As for his decision to apply (to join PKR), we have not reached that stage yet. Let him complete his Haj first, and there is no need for unhealthy interpretation (regarding his resignation).
"(But) of course, for PKR, we must discuss the matter with our partners in the unity government and consider it carefully," he said when met by reporters at the Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair (KLIBF) 2025 today.
Anwar also said that Tengku Zafrul's position as the Investment, Trade and Industry Minister is not affected.
"We want him to continue his duties given his strong performance as minister, and the country needs his contribution," he said.
When asked about Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi's statement that the ministerial post should be allocated to Umno to maintain the party's original quota of seven ministers, Anwar reiterated that "nothing has been discussed."
"We have not yet discussed it with the president (Zahid), it is too early for that," he said.
On Friday, Tengku Zafrul announced his resignation from all posts in Umno, along with his membership in the party.
In announcing his resignation, Tengku Zafrul also expressed his intention to join PKR.
He said after much self-reflection and consideration of various factors, he has decided to do so due to "compatibility and suitability."
Following this, Zahid said he was not surprised by Tengku Zafrul's announcement to quit Umno and join PKR, as they had discussed the matter during a parliamentary session three months ago.
The deputy prime minister, who is also the chairman of Barisan Nasional, however, said it is unethical for any party within the unity government to accept membership applications from former leaders or members of its allies.
Zahid said that following Tengku Zafrul's decision to leave the party, the unity government should also allocate another ministerial position to Umno to maintain the original quota of seven ministers previously allocated to the party.
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