KUALA LUMPUR – Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has played down concerns of internal friction in Umno following the resignation of Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.
Ahmad Zahid, who also serves as Umno President, said grassroots members viewed Tengku Zafrul’s decision to leave the party as appropriate, citing a lack of loyalty, Bernama reported.
“I don’t see any indication of ‘temperature rising’ within Umno. It’s better for him to leave if there is no loyalty to the party. Don’t disturb him because he is currently performing the Hajj, hopefully, peace will surround his mind,” he said.
He was speaking at a press conference after chairing a preparatory meeting with the Malaysian delegation during the start of his four-day working visit to the United Kingdom.
Tengku Zafrul announced his departure from Umno in a Facebook post last Friday, stating he had submitted his resignation to join PKR.
In response to speculation over a possible Cabinet reshuffle, Ahmad Zahid said any discussion on replacing Tengku Zafrul as minister should be addressed within the Unity Government.
“The absolute right to appoint ministers rests with the Prime Minister (Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim), and in this matter, it is better for us to hold internal discussions to avoid various interpretations,” he said.
Ahmad Zahid was previously reported to have urged for Umno’s quota of seven full ministers in the Federal Cabinet to be reinstated following Tengku Zafrul’s exit. – June 2, 2025