KUALA LUMPUR – The recent Cabinet reshuffle failed to deliver the rakyat’s expectations to see changes in the Education Ministry, claimed former Economy Minister Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli.
According to the former Deputy PKR Deputy President, the majority of the rakyat were “excited” to see Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek be replaced by someone else, but that did not happen.
“The people were early awaiting for one name – Fadhlina (to be replaced)… that is among the non-partisan crowd.
“Because the Education Ministry is a very important portfolio. When the cabinet did not involve Fadhlina, or the ministry at all, to me, that’s a sign that the rakyat are disappointed that their voices have gone unheard,” the Pandan MP said in his Yang Berhenti Menteri podcast on YouTube last night.
He said that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim would have commanded the people’s respect if he had replaced Fadhlina, despite her being publicly known as the daughter of the former’s close friend.
The recent Cabinet reshuffle witnessed several deputy ministers being promoted to ministers, as well as change of portfolios.
Rafizi also commented on the appointment as PKR Vice President Datuk Seri R. Ramanan as the Human Resources Minister.
He said although the general public may not have any issues with the former MIC senior leader’s appointment, it has ruffled a few feathers among PKR supporters.
“By appointing him (Ramanan), Anwar has sent the wrong signal to PKR supporters. This especially because Ramanan is replacing Steven Sim (Bukit Mertajam MP), who has a strong support base in Pakatan Harapan.
“It (the appointment) seems like telling Harapan supporters that no matter the sentiments, he (Anwar) is ultimately empowered to do what he wants,” said Rafizi. – December 20, 2025