Shah Alam, El Sky News – The upcoming cabinet reshuffle expected to be announced soon by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is likely to be strategic and targeted rather than large-scale, according to political observers. The move is seen as an effort to strengthen policy coordination and improve the effectiveness of the Unity Government’s administration.
Political analyst from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), Dr. Mazlan Ali, said the reshuffle would likely focus on portfolios related to the economy, investment, and government communications with the public.
“This reshuffle is expected to be more tactical in nature not just about swapping names or positions. It is intended to ensure that the implementation of the Madani Economy framework proceeds more smoothly and responds better to public issues,” he said when contacted.
He added that Anwar is expected to retain most of the existing ministers while making minor adjustments to ministries that require performance improvement.
“The government’s main focus now is stability and efficiency. A massive reshuffle would not necessarily add value unless it addresses specific structural weaknesses,” he explained.
Government sources also indicated that any changes will take into account the balance among coalition partners in the Unity Government, including Pakatan Harapan (PH), Barisan Nasional (BN), Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS), and Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS).
A senior government official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, revealed that the Prime Minister has held several rounds of discussions with party leaders over the past week to gather input and consensus on potential new appointments.
“Performance evaluations for each ministry have been ongoing since August. This reshuffle is more about improving policy delivery rather than politics per se,” the source said.
It is understood that the official announcement could be made after the current parliamentary session concludes, though the Prime Minister’s Office has yet to confirm a specific date.
The last cabinet reshuffle under Anwar Ibrahim’s administration took place in December 2023, involving minor portfolio adjustments and the appointment of several new deputy ministers.
