Let PM decide on issue of ministers' resignation, Loke says

Transport Minister Anthony Loke urged all parties not to pressure the prime minister following the resignation of two ministers recently.

He said Anwar Ibrahim will make a decision based on thorough consideration and at his discretion, in the best interest of the country.

“The appointment of ministers is the jurisdiction and prerogative of the prime minister… I am confident that he will act wisely in this matter and will take various factors into account in filling any vacancies. So far, there are no vacancies.

“As stated by the PM, he only approved the leave for both ministers. So far, they still hold their positions, (they are) just on leave,” he told reporters after attending a high-tea event with SPM top achievers in Negeri Sembilan today.

On Wednesday (May 28), Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli and Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad were reported to have resigned from the cabinet, effective June 17 and July 4, respectively, after losing in the 2025 PKR party election.

Rafizi failed to defend his post as PKR deputy president after losing to Nurul Izzah Anwar, while Nik Nazmi lost in the race for four vice-president posts.

The Prime Minister’s Office said in a statement that Anwar had received letters from the two ministers requesting leave and tendering their resignations from their cabinet posts.

The statement also confirmed that Anwar had approved their leave requests, and that any further decisions would be communicated by the prime minister.

Meanwhile, Loke, who is also the Seremban MP and DAP secretary-general, said his party will not interfere in the internal affairs of any party, including component parties.

“The issue of Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz quitting Umno and applying to join PKR is also not our party’s business. So, I’m taking the approach that if it does not involve my party, I will not comment.

“DAP members also know that and have not made any statements. I do not encourage anyone to make the situation worse if the issue involves component parties… if there is an appointment or vacancy, that is their business,” he said.

Yesterday, Zafrul, who is the investment, trade, and industry minister, announced his resignation as an Umno supreme council member, Kota Raja division chief, and party member.

- Bernama

Zafrul abandoning sinking ship to seek greener pastures - PAS leader

Zahid wants Umno's cabinet quota restored after Zafrul's exit

I have planned next move, will reveal more after Raya Haji - Rafizi

We resigned, not betrayed party - Nik Nazmi