Opposing views in PKR widening among youth leaders over Zafrul jumping ship
THE potential move of Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz from UMNO to PKR has stirred both support and concern within Malaysia’s political landscape.
Adam Adli Abdul Halim, PKR central leadership council member and Deputy Youth and Sports Minister, cautioned that Zafrul’s transition could strain ties with UMNO, a key coalition partner, pointing out the need for an amicable resolution to preserve government unity.
“I cannot deny that this is creating some friction. So, let’s tread very carefully.” says Adam Adli.
He noted that no formal application from Zafrul has been received, urging careful handling of the situation.
Conversely, PKR Youth Chief Kamil Munim endorsed Zafrul’s potential entry, highlighting discussions spanning over a year and praising his expertise as an asset to PKR’s progressive vision.
Munim believes Zafrul’s inclusion would broaden PKR’s appeal and reinforce its commitment to integrity and inclusivity.
Zafrul, having resigned from UMNO after consulting its leaders, awaits PKR’s decision, which will consider inputs from grassroots and allies.
“I believe that Tengku Zafrul joining PKR, which is understood to have been in discussion for more than a year, would allow us to attract support from various quarters as we build a more progressive, just and inclusive nation,” said Kamil Munim.
Meanwhile, Adam urged for an amicable resolution to maintain strong government alliances, noting that PKR’s secretary-general stated no formal application had been received from Zafrul.
Zafrul’s resignation from UMNO and move to PKR has sparked concerns about strained ties with UMNO, with PKR’s leadership promising to consider allies’ and grassroots’ input. — FocusM June 1, 2025
Takiyuddin: Perikatan not poaching Rafizi, Nik Nazmi or Zafrul
The Star, 1 June 2025 PETALING JAYA: Perikatan Nasional is not inviting Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli, Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz or Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad to join the Opposition, says Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan.
"We have never invited them, nor have we held any discussions with them to join Perikatan. If they feel that they want to join us to support our struggle, then that is up to them.
"We have no intention to poach anyone," the Perikatan chief whip said at a press conference in Kota Baru on Sunday (June 1).
Takiyuddin, who is also PAS secretary-general, said Perikatan was open to cooperating with the trio in Parliament.
Both Rafizi and Nik Nazmi stepped down from their posts as Economy Minister and Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister respectively after a poor showing at the PKR polls.
Takiyuddin also criticised Tengku Zafrul's decision to leave Umno for PKR, saying the move was unprincipled.
"When someone constantly changes their stance, it is difficult for us to understand their direction," he said.
"I do not know if this move is related to his position in the government or other factors but the people can assess for themselves," he said.
On Friday (May 30), Tengku Zafrul announced quitting Umno and all party posts and would to join PKR.
Tengku Zafrul quit as Selangor Umno treasurer in April last year, and speculation had been rife that he would eventually join PKR.
PKR secretary-general Fuziah Salleh said there is no special pathway for party membership and anyone who wants to join, including Tengku Zafrul, must adhere to standard procedures.
