Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim humorously invites reporters to propose names for potential cabinet reshuffle amid speculation over ministers’ expiring terms.
PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim turned speculation about a cabinet reshuffle into a light-hearted moment by inviting reporters to suggest names for the new line-up.
Responding with humour after officiating the Putrajaya Festival of Ideas 2025 closing ceremony, Anwar cheekily told journalists to submit their proposals directly to him.
“Give me your suggestions if you have any… just pass it to me,” he said when questioned about potential cabinet changes.
Speculation has intensified amid reports that several ministers must step down as their senate terms expire early next month.
Among those affected are Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir and Home Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.
Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz and Religious Affairs Minister Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar also face expiring senate appointments.
Earlier during the same event, Zambry hinted at uncertainty about his position while emphasising the festival’s importance as a national agenda.
“Whether I remain a Cabinet minister or not, that’s secondary, but this is a national agenda,” he told attendees.
Zambry noted his term would conclude soon, stating “My term will be up soon, maybe just two or three weeks left.”
He was among four senators appointed to the cabinet on December 3, 2022, with terms expiring on December 2 this year.
When asked about a possible extension, Zambry said he remained unaware of any decision but would continue performing ministerial duties “for as long as required.”
The event was also attended by Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek and Federal Territories Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa.
Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar was also present at the ceremony. – Bernama
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