PRIME Minister Anwar Ibrahim must not keep delaying his cabinet reshuffle as he needs to boost public confidence in his administration, political observers said.

They said several underperforming cabinet members must be replaced.

Universiti Teknologi Malaysia senior lecturer Mazlan Ali said a reshuffle could improve the quality of Anwar’s cabinet.

“(Anwar) can reshuffle his cabinet by replacing certain members or retaining them by changing their portfolios.

“I think the cabinet reshuffle will further strengthen the prime minister’s administration,” he said.

Mazlan also said by reshuffling the cabinet, Anwar’s government could resolve several issues and gain the people’s trust.

Earlier this week, former health minister Khairy Jamaluddin called for a reshuffle.

He urged Anwar to course-correct and drop deadweight from the cabinet.

Khairy said it was crucial to appoint a second finance minister to drive tough reforms. Anwar is current finance minister.

International Islamic University of Malaysia’s Tunku Mohar Tunku Mohd Mokhtar agreed a cabinet reshuffle was necessary.

He said the Pakatan Harapan (PH) chairman has several factors to consider.

“He needs to appoint senior members from the (government) coalition, including from PH, to the cabinet.

“He has to satisfy demands from his coalition partners to ensure stability.

“He must also have competent leaders head strategic portfolios, including finance, education, agriculture and food security, and information,” the assistant political science professor said.

University of Tasmania Asian Studies professor James Chin agreed there must be a cabinet shake-up.

“I think he has to revamp key areas such as the education, health and economy portfolios … (in which) core issues have not been resolved,” he said.

Vacant since end of July

A former PH lawmaker, who declined to be named, also said the cabinet needs rearranging.

The former MP said several “incompetent” ministers have not been performing satisfactorily since their appointment last year and cannot provide the support Anwar needs.

“He needs people who can perform, ot people who give money away just to appear as if they do work. That is not acceptable anymore,” he said.

Mazlan said he was puzzled as to why Anwar has not appointed a replacement for the late Salahuddin Ayub, who held the domestic trade and cost of living portfolio.

“I believe as long as he delays the appointment of the new domestic trade and cost of living minister, it will cause more panic among the rakyat, including his own supporters,” Mazlan said.

“Is it because it is difficult for him to find a candidate on a par with the late Salahuddin?

“I believe in Amanah, there are many potential leaders suited to lead the ministry,” he said.

Mazlan said the appointment is especially important amid rising living costs.

Last Friday, Anwar said a suitable candidate has been identified to lead the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry.

He said the person replacing Salahuddin would be announced soon. – November 30, 2023.