SHAH ALAM – Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz has officially resigned from Umno and announced his intention to join Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR).
Zafrul, who held senior roles within Umno, including as a Supreme Council member and Kota Raja division chief, confirmed his resignation from the party, ending nearly three decades of membership.
"Today, I have submitted my resignation letter to the leadership of Umno. In that letter, I stated my decision to resign as a member of the Supreme Council, the Kota Raja Umno Division Chief and as a member of Umno.
"This was not an easy decision to make. Before reaching this conclusion, I sought advice and opinions from friends both within and outside the party, including from the Honourable President (Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi) himself.
"I took a considerable amount of time to reflect deeply on this decision, especially since Umno is the only political party I have ever joined, dating back to 1997,” he said.
Zafrul said the decision came after a period of deep reflection and careful evaluation of several factors, particularly in terms of compatibility and alignment.
He also shared that he had informed PKR President Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Secretary-General Fuziah Salleh of his intention to join the party.
He added that he would follow the standard application process to officially become a PKR member.
"I would like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt thanks to my colleagues, supporters and Umno members who have supported and encouraged me throughout my active years in Umno.
"Your contributions can never be repaid and will always be remembered. Thank you,” he added.
Zafrul’s defection follows months of speculation. Back in March, he had hinted that he would not rush his decision regarding his Umno membership. However, Wednesday’s announcement definitively closes that chapter of his political journey.
His decision, announced earlier tonight, comes in the wake of the resignations of Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli and Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, both of whom are currently serving their notice periods.
Rafizi is expected to step down officially on June 17, while Nik Nazmi’s departure is slated for July 4.
This move is particularly significant, with two of PKR's most prominent Cabinet representatives stepping aside.