‘Move could strengthen claims of political favouritism in Selangor’
PETALING JAYA: Analysts say a suggestion made by Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari that Nurul Izzah Anwar could be a future state leader has raised eyebrows, adding that it could backfire.
Amirudin’s remarks, made during the Keluar Sekejap podcast, were swiftly followed by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim clarifying that the idea was neither timely nor discussed with him.
Nusantara Academy of Strategic Research senior fellow Prof Dr Azmi Hassan said the suggestion was baffling.
“I am perplexed by the proposal. It seems to do a disservice to Anwar, who has already said the timing is not right for her to assume the role.”
Azmi said the move could strengthen claims of political favouritism in Selangor.
“It is unclear why Amirudin feels appointing Nurul Izzah would reduce perceptions of nepotism. On the contrary, it would likely reinforce them.”
He added that the path to the position would not be straightforward.
“She would first need to contest in Selangor and someone would have to step aside for her. I do not think this is advisable.”
He also said the idea undermines the efforts of PKR to prove that family ties do not dictate leadership.
Azmi also pointed to alternatives such as Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz, who brings federal experience but lacks a strong base within PKR.
Tengku Zafrul completes his second term as a senator on Dec 2 and speculation about him stepping into state leadership has been ongoing.
“To be menteri besar, one needs solid grassroots support and he does not have that at present.”
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia political analyst Assoc Prof Dr Mazlan Ali agreed that Nurul Izzah would face major hurdles.
“She is more prominent at the federal level, having served several terms in Parliament, but she has never been an assemblyman.”
He added that leading Selangor, a Malay-majority state with a strong monarchy, traditional values and complex politics, could be difficult for her.
He also said the Selangor Sultan holds discretionary power in the appointment process, adding that even Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, despite having majority support at the time, was not appointed as menteri besar.
“This shows the constraints she may face.”
On Tengku Zafrul, Mazlan said his corporate and federal credentials would be an advantage but the optics surrounding Nurul Izzah remain a concern.
“Some voters may see her appointment as reinforcing cronyism, which conflicts with the reformist ideals her father has long championed.”
Meanwhile, Amirudin reaffirmed that he would continue to lead the state until the end of his term, with no plans to reshuffle the state executive council.
