Limited changes seen as test for controversial ministers amid coalition realities, says analyst
PETALING JAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s latest Cabinet reshuffle is widely seen as giving a second chance to several ministers who have faced criticism or controversy, including Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek and Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing.
Describing it as modest in scope, Universiti Malaya senior lecturer Dr Mohammad Tawfik Yaakub said the exercise involved limited changes, with most ministers retained and only three dropped.
The reshuffle, he said, signals Anwar’s preference for continuity at this stage of his administration, while allowing room to recalibrate internal pressures from coalition partners and component parties.
On ministers perceived as underperforming or contentious, Mohammad Tawfik said the reshuffle effectively grants a fresh opportunity to several figures, most notably Fadhlina.
“Fadhlina has been given another opportunity to prove herself. Moving forward, any controversies or heated issues involving the Education Ministry must be managed more effectively,” he said when contacted yesterday.
He said Anwar’s own experience as a former Education minister places him in a strong position to provide closer oversight and guidance, particularly given Fadhlina’s role as PKR Wanita chief.
“With the prime minister’s background and familiarity with education issues, he will likely work more closely with Fadhlina to ensure recurring controversies are addressed swiftly and decisively.”
As for Tiong, who is Bintulu MP and Parti Demokratik Progresif (PDP) president, Mohammad Tawfik said his position is “insulated”.
“Tiong represents a Sarawak-based party.
“Any move involving him requires the consent of his party and, ultimately, Gabungan Parti Sarawak.”
Mohammad Tawfik described Tiong as a minister who frequently attracts criticism but remains politically protected by coalition dynamics.
“This is about balancing the future of the Unity government, while at the same time containing internal pressures and reinforcing the reform agenda. For ministers who remain, especially those under scrutiny, this reshuffle should be seen as a final warning and an opportunity to deliver.”
He said one of the most closely watched outcomes of the reshuffle was the continued exclusion of MCA and MIC from the Madani administration.
Both the Barisan Nasional component parties had been widely expected to secure Cabinet representation, which many believed would help redefine their political direction and relevance after poor electoral performances.
“Undoubtedly, MCA and MIC had been waiting for this reshuffle. They had high hopes that one or several of their leaders would be appointed to the Cabinet, as this would have given them a clearer sense of direction and renewed legitimacy.”
Mohammad Tawfik said the decision would be deeply disappointing for both parties, particularly MIC which has been more vocal about its dissatisfaction over marginalisation.
“The reshuffle is a clear letdown for MCA and MIC.
“Their expectations of finally entering the Cabinet did not come to fruition.
“As a result, we are likely to see new political movements or agendas, especially from MIC.”
Mohammad Tawfik said MIC is now at a political crossroads and may be forced to make an urgent decision about its future alignment.
“MIC has been hesitant for some time about whether to remain in BN. It has held discussions internally and with BN leadership.
“Today’s reshuffle marks a clear turning point for MIC to decide whether it wants to continue within BN or chart a new political path.”
Mohammad Tawfik added that MIC is likely to be the first to take a more drastic step, potentially exiting BN, while MCA may opt for a more cautious approach.
“MCA’s response may not be as overt. Even if it leaves BN, MCA is likely to continue supporting the Unity government.
“But for MIC, I foresee a more pronounced political realignment after this.”
