KUALA LUMPUR: Former UMNO Supreme Council member, Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Aziz, has officially resigned from the party just days after the resignation announcement of two senior PKR Cabinet ministers, Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli and Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad.
In a statement posted on his official Facebook page on Friday, Zafrul announced that he had submitted his resignation letter to UMNO’s top leadership.
The resignation includes his roles as a member of the Supreme Council, UMNO Kota Raja Division Chief, and as an ordinary party member.
“This decision was not an easy one,” he said.
“Before arriving at it, I sought advice and opinions from friends both within and outside the party, including the President of UMNO himself.”
Zafrul, who joined UMNO in 1997, expressed that the decision came after a long period of reflection and consideration of various factors, especially in terms of compatibility and alignment with the party’s current direction.
In the same announcement, he revealed his intention to join Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR), having informed the party’s president and secretary-general, and stated that he would undergo the standard membership application process.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank my friends, supporters, and UMNO members who have supported and encouraged me throughout my time in the party. Your contributions will never be forgotten,” he said.
Zafrul, who previously served as Finance Minister as well as Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, is expected to bring both political weight and economic expertise to PKR if his application is accepted.
His move comes amid ongoing shifts within Malaysia’s political landscape as parties gear up for future elections and leadership changes.