'Political lifeline is long': Syed Saddiq reflects on recent Cabinet exits

SHAH ALAM - Muar MP Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman believes that a person's political journey is long and not defined by a single political cycle.

His comments come after the recent resignations of Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli and Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad.

Rafizi (left) and Nik Nazmi.

Syed Saddiq, who is well aware of the unpredictable nature of politics, spoke about the enduring nature of political careers and the importance of continued public service, regardless of formal titles.

“That is their choice and I respect it. I know both of them and I believe they are good leaders for Malaysia,” he said told Sinar Daily at an education event held at the Ideal Convention Centre here today.

He pointed out that political careers are rarely straightforward or confined to one election or term.

"A person's political journey is usually very long. It’s not just defined by one political cycle.

"From the bottom of my heart, I wish them all the best. Wherever they go, whether in or out of government, I’m confident they’ll find the best ways to serve the interests of all Malaysians," he added.

When asked about perceptions of nepotism or internal party dynamics within PKR, Syed Saddiq chose not to comment in detail but reflected on his own experiences.

“I’m not going to speak about nepotism or such issues, that’s an internal party matter. But I can speak from my own personal experience in 2018,” he said.

Recalling his time working alongside then-Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, Syed Saddiq addressed earlier allegations suggesting she was simply a "seat warmer" for her husband, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

“In 2018, there were allegations saying that the then-Deputy Prime Minister, Wan Azizah, was only there because of Datuk Seri Anwar.

"But when I worked with her, it was the opposite. I truly believe she was there based on her own merit,” Syed Saddiq recalled.

He praised Wan Azizah’s dedication and hard work during her tenure.

“She’s an exceptional woman...super hardworking. I remember being in many meetings with her where she spoke passionately about defending the welfare of children and women, even making difficult decisions to ensure Malaysians lead healthier lives,” he said.

On May 28, Rafizi officially resigned as Economy Minister, following his defeat in the PKR party elections, stating he no longer had a mandate to continue advancing the party’s agenda in the government.

Shortly after, Nik Nazmi announced his resignation as Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister, effective July 4, citing his loss in the PKR elections and noting that his Cabinet role was closely tied to his former position as a party vice president.