KUALA Selangor MP Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad is “done” with competitive politics and will most likely not contest in the next general election.

The former Pakatan Harapan health minister said he has had a good innings, having completed two terms as an MP and felt it was time to step aside and give an opportunity to younger leaders.

“I’ve had two terms in Parliament and 22 months as a minister. I wish I could do more.

“So far as I’m concerned, it’s finished. It’s already the end of it,” the Amanah strategic director told The Malaysian Insight in an exclusive interview today.

Dzulkefly, who represents Kuala Selangor, has served the constituency for two terms, after winning 2008 and 2018.

In 2013, he lost to Barisan Nasional’s Irmohizam Ibrahim by 460 votes, but in 2018, he won back the seat by 8,500 votes.

Dzulkefly said serving two terms is just enough for a politician.

“In any position you assume, two terms is just the right kind of engagement.

“In this case, it would provide a consistent and continuous leadership change, and this is what is missing in Malaysian politics. I think it is high time that we address this and I mean it,” he said.

He said that this limit is not necessary for younger politicians but encouraged them to have a break before returning to politics again.

“If you are young, then you have a break and come back more enriched, embellished, skilful, more competent,” he said.

Pressed further if he would reconsider his decision if his party requested him to contest, Dzulkefly said he is determined to move on.

“I want to make way for younger leaders and I’ve said that a year earlier to the top party leaders,” he said.

“Things are never cast in stone in politics but if you ask me honestly, from the bottom of my heart, I’m done.”

It is reported that Finance Minister Tengku Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz is eyeing Dzulkefly’s constituency and is said to be lobbying with Umno leadership for the nomination.

Plans moving forward

Meanwhile, Dzulkefly said that he wants to groom young leaders for the future of the country.

He said that he wished to be an influence in grooming young leaders with a hope of ending the nation’s toxic politics.

“I would want to assume a role, hopefully seeing and grooming technocratic leaders, younger crop of professional leaders, even activists.

“I really wish to assume this role in a more significant way.

Dzulkelfly said that future young leaders should possess certain qualities.

“I want to advance ethical politics and have leaders able to address issues and policies, regardless of whatever background they are from, especially if they want to be an MP.” – May 31, 2022.