02/06/2025

MONDAY | JUNE 2, 2025

2

Tengku Zafrul PKR bid a political survival move: Academic PETALING JAYA: While Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz has earned praise for his ministerial competence, his political clout – particularly at the grassroots level – remains under scrutiny, say analysts. Commenting on his decision to quit Umno and express intent to join PKR, Nusantara Academy for Strategic Research senior fellow Prof Dr Azmi Hassan said Tengku Zafrul’s Cabinet experience makes him a valuable asset to the PKR-led government. “Yes, I believe this move is about political survival – and rightly so. He’s proven himself as a capable minister since 2020,” Azmi told theSun . However, Azmi cautioned that excelling in government does not necessarily translate to success in party politics. “Running a ministry is very different from commanding grassroots support. No politician can thrive without a solid base,” he said. He pointed out that despite holding the Umno Kota Raja division chief post, Tengku Zafrul struggled to connect with rank-and-file members – a likely reason for his resignation as Selangor Umno treasurer in 2024. Assoc Prof Dr Syaza Shukri of International Islamic University Malaysia – also a fellow at the ISEAS–Yusof Ishak Institute – viewed Tengku Zafrul’s potential entry into PKR as a strategic opportunity for both sides. “He could technically align with either Umno or PKR, but right now, the odds seem to favour PKR,” she said in a WhatsApp reply. “Umno leans heavily on grassroots machinery, whereas PKR might be more open to influential technocrats. Tengku Zafrul’s ‘progressive’ image fits better within PKR’s brand.” Like Azmi, Syaza noted that Tengku Zafrul’s rise in politics has been elite-driven, lacking organic support from the ground. “His career has mostly depended on endorsement from political insiders rather than grassroots momentum,” she said. Meanwhile, Generasi Keadilan chairman and former PKR senator Yusmadi Yusoff dismissed claims that Tengku Zafrul is simply an opportunist, describing him instead as a “strategic” actor in politics. “Why are people questioning his choice? He’s free to choose his political vehicle under the principle of association,” Yusmadi told theSun yesterday. “I don’t see him as an opportunist. I see him as a competitive politician. But he needs to realise that politics also demands diplomacy and a long-term vision. If he only focuses on short-term gains, he risks undermining his future.” On May 30, Tengku Zafrul officially quit Umno, relinquishing his posts as supreme council member and Kota Raja division chief. The former CIMB Group CEO entered the Cabinet in 2020 as a senator and served as finance minister. He contested the Kuala Selangor seat in the last general election but lost to Amanah’s Datuk Seri Dzulkefly Ahmad. recent resignations of two ministers – Economy Minister Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli and Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad – who are currently on approved leave. “There’s no urgency to reshuffle. “Both ministers are on leave with my permission. They’re taking time to reflect, and the government continues to function normally.” – BY HARITH KAMAL Ű BY IKHWAN ZULKAFLEE newsdesk@thesundaily.com

Book vouchers for teachers to promote reading habit King, Queen extend well wishes on 67th RMAF anniversary KUALA LUMPUR: His Majesty the King of Malaysia Sultan Ibrahim and Her Majesty the Queen of Malaysia Raja Zarith Sofiah yesterday extended their heartfelt greetings to all personnel and veterans of the Royal Malaysian Air Force in conjunction with its 67th anniversary. In a post on the Facebook page of Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar, His Majesty, who is also the Supreme Commander of the Malaysian Armed Forces, expressed highest appreciation for the dedication and commitment shown by RMAF personnel in safeguarding the nation’s airspace. “May the RMAF continue to progress, remain distinguished and command respect, and always be under the protection and blessings of Allah SWT in fulfilling their duties for the beloved nation. “ Al-Fatihah to those who have departed. May they be placed among the righteous and the martyrs,” said His Majesty. – Bernama

“We cannot win through slogans alone. Real reform must be deep, not loud.” He also warned against using religion and politics as divisive tools, urging Malaysians to think critically and act with maturity. Anwar further called on the Higher Education Ministry to introduce clear guidelines for book acquisitions in public institutions. “Not all books are of equal value. Some are brilliant, some less impactful and a few may not be suitable. We must be thoughtful and discerning in what we read and promote.” Encouraging the public to look beyond superficial online content, he urged Malaysians to engage more critically with knowledge. “No great nation exists without a deep love for knowledge. Let’s not just consume information – we must seek wisdom.” He expressed optimism about Malaysia’s future, as long as the nation is anchored in a genuine respect for learning. “We won’t become great without knowledge. And knowledge must be pursued with joy and sincerity. “Wisdom is not just about information, it is about meaning and insight,” he said.

o 430,000 educators will be prioritised in this year’s allocation as part of mission to spark cultural shift: PM

Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

strong reading culture is still lacking in Malaysia, stressing that national progress must begin with knowledge nurtured at home and reinforced in schools. “Our goal isn’t just short-term unity. We want Malaysia to be a great nation. And to achieve that, we must compete, work hard and read. “We must not limit ourselves to technological or economic achievements. Literature, history, arts and humanities are equally vital. “Leaders, professionals, technocrats – all must value culture and learning. Otherwise, Madani becomes an empty slogan.” Anwar also reminded that true reform cannot be driven by slogans or social media trends but must be rooted in education and intellectual sincerity. “We talk about reform and new politics, but without a strong knowledge base, what change can we offer?

KUALA LUMPUR: In an attempt to revive Malaysia’s reading habit and put books back at the heart of the nation’s soul, the government will distribute book vouchers to 430,000 teachers this year – shifting gears from students to the very frontlines of education. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the move is part of a wider mission to spark a cultural shift where reading becomes second nature, not an afterthought. Delivering his keynote address at the closing of the 42nd Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair (KLIBF 2025) at World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur, Anwar said educators will be prioritised in this year’s voucher allocation. “We’re making adjustments this year. Last year, the vouchers were given to students. This year, we’ve decided to allocate them to all teachers,” he said. He added that the plan for 2026 will depend on the state of the economy, with Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek expected to announce further details on the distribution process soon. For the higher education sector, Anwar said the voucher distribution will be more targeted. “While there are suggestions to continue offering them to undergraduates, we’re considering adjustments for postgraduate students as well. “The matter is still under review, but the total allocation from last year remains,” he said. Also present were Fadhlina, Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir and Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari. Anwar praised the rising popularity of KLIBF, which recorded over two million visitors this year – up from 1.8 million in 2024. He said the growing turnout, particularly among families, signals renewed public interest in reading. “This is not just an event – it is a hall of knowledge, a celebration increasingly embraced by families. “Reading should not be a fleeting activity. It must become a cultural habit, part of daily life, especially for our children,” he said. However, Anwar acknowledged that a KUALA LUMPUR: Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz’s move to quit Umno and signal his intention to join PKR will not impact his ministerial role, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said yesterday. Anwar made it clear that Zafrul will stay on as Investment, Trade and Industry minister, citing his strong track record in securing major investments for the country. “Tengku Zafrul has performed

Anwar receiving a souvenir from KLIBF organising chairman Mohd Khair Ngadiron at the event. At left is Fadhlina. – ADAM AMIR HAMZAH/THESUN

Party switch will not impact ministerial role, says Anwar

exceptionally well. He has helped land investments worth hundreds of billions, and many of those deals were sealed thanks to his efforts. “His position remains unchanged. We need his expertise, and we want him to continue,” said the prime minister. Speaking after closing the Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair 2025 at the World Trade Centre, Anwar said while Zafrul has expressed

interest in joining PKR, the matter has yet to be formally discussed within the party. “He’s stated his intention, but nothing is final. Let him complete his haj first. There’s no need to rush,” Anwar said. “As PKR is part of the unity government, any decision will be made collectively with our coalition partners.” Anwar also played down speculation of an imminent Cabinet reshuffle following the