KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia’s Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli announced on May 28 that he has submitted his resignation to Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, following his defeat in the recent internal election for the deputy presidency of Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR), the ruling party led by Anwar.
Rafizi lost the deputy president post to Anwar’s daughter, Nurul Izzah Anwar, in a closely watched party contest last week. In a statement, Rafizi said his resignation, which takes effect on June 17, was in line with democratic norms, adding that his loss meant he no longer held a mandate to lead on policy matters within the government.
“As is the practice in countries that emphasise democratic principles, leaders who lose in party elections must make way for the winning leaders to take their place in government,” Rafizi stated.
It remains unclear whether Nurul Izzah, who has previously served as a Member of Parliament and held advisory roles, will be offered a position in the federal Cabinet. Reuters has reached out to the Prime Minister’s Office for comment, but no response has been issued.
Rafizi, who took office as Economy Minister in 2022, said his final responsibility had been completed with the submission of the 13th Malaysia Plan. The plan outlines wide-ranging economic reforms, including significant changes in the education sector, and is scheduled to be tabled in Parliament during the next session.
“I hope the Cabinet will maintain some of the bold reforms… even though I will no longer be in the Cabinet,” he added, signalling a desire for policy continuity despite his exit. Rafizi’s departure marks a significant shift in Malaysia’s political landscape, as the country continues to navigate key economic challenges and ongoing reform efforts.