Anwar confirms initial talks on Zafrul's possible move to PKR

Summary:

• Anwar Ibrahim confirms talks on Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz's potential move to PKR.

• This is after Umno and PKR leaders deny receiving any knowledge on the issue.

• Tengku Zafrul will address the matter soon.

Prime Minister and PKR president Anwar Ibrahim has confirmed that initial discussions have taken place within the party regarding Umno leader Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz’s potential entry.

While PKR does not typically extend invitations to individuals, Anwar emphasised that the party will consider those interested.

“The same applies to Zafrul. We have never denied it. In our culture, we don’t actively invite people but are open to discussions, and the party remains welcoming.

“Our principle is to maintain openness, allowing individuals to contribute constructively while fostering good relations with parties, including Umno and other allies,” he was quoted as saying by Buletin TV3 today.

Anwar's statement came following rumours of ongoing negotiations for Zafrul (above, right) to join PKR.

Addressing the matter, Anwar added that while Pakatan Harapan has historically not supported such moves, they have never been restricted.

“Historically, in terms of policy, Harapan has not encouraged such moves, but we have never prohibited them. We respect their decisions while maintaining good ties with their parties,” he said.

Zafrul to address rumours

Earlier, Zafrul, a member of the Umno supreme council, stated that he would address the rumours soon, including speculation about him replacing PKR vice-president Amirudin Shari as Selangor menteri besar.

Amirudin has since reaffirmed that he will remain in his position until the end of his term in 2028.

Zafrul is the investment, trade and industry minister, a role which is set to end in December 2025 due to the term limit of his senatorship, which prevents reappointment.

Previously, PKR secretary-general Fuziah Salleh denied any knowledge of such discussions.

Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi stated that he had not received any official notification from Zafrul about the move.

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