KUALA LUMPUR – A cabinet reshuffle seems to be looming ever closer, with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim confirming that the move will take place sometime this month.
In answering a query posed by a 12-year-old member of the congregation at the Putra Al-Amin Surau in Putrajaya today, Anwar agreed with the youth who suggested that a cabinet reshuffle be held before next year.
“When would you suggest (that the cabinet reshuffle) take place? Before or after 2024?” Anwar questioned, to which the boy, Akmal Afif Yaseer Arafat, answered that the event should happen by the year’s end.
“I agree,” Anwar responded in jest.
It was reported that Akmal had waited patiently outside the Surau’s main door to meet and shake hands with Anwar for the first time.
The boy had also received Anwar’s autograph on his RM1 and RM5 notes.
Earlier today, an online news site reported that a cabinet reshuffle is in the works, with a new health minister likely to be appointed, according to sources. The reasons for the possible removal of Dr Zaliha Mustafa are unclear.
If replaced, Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek is the likely frontrunner, while Natural Resources, Environment, and Climate Change Minister, Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad might take over the education portfolio.
The sources suggested Amanah’s Shah Alam MP Azli Yusof for the vacant domestic trade and cost of living minister position after it was vacated by Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub who died in July this year.
The reshuffle could involve deputy ministers swapping portfolios, and there’s speculation about appointing a second finance minister from outside the current lineup.
The reshuffle is anticipated next week, following hints from Anwar in October. – December 1, 2023