KUCHING: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim should appoint competent individuals to the federal cabinet, but a Cabinet reshuffle should be postponed until after the Budget 2024, according to political analyst Professor Dr Novel Lyndon. Novel stated that rushing a Cabinet reshuffle or conducting it before the budget is tabled and passed would not be a wise move.
“The prime minister should consult with other component parties first, even though the appointment of federal ministers is his prerogative.
This is to avoid any dissatisfaction among leaders and members of other parties,” he said.
He added, “Anwar must select individuals with relevant experience and genuine qualifications to address the current issues faced by the people, either by appointing them to the federal cabinet or assigning them specific portfolios.”
Speaking to the New Sarawak Tribune, Novel expressed the opinion that Anwar needs to strengthen his leadership to counter the Malay proclamation sentiment, particularly in rural and remote areas.
“The Malay movement against the Unity Government is now shifting towards Federal Land Development Authority (Felda) resettlement, which we can consider a fixed deposit for UMNO.
“However, this is no longer the case due to the Malay proclamation sentiment and the doctrinarian Malay mindset regarding DAP as a chauvinist party.
The situation still depends on Malay supremacy propaganda,” he explained.
When asked about the potential impact of the Cabinet reshuffle on the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS), the political analyst believed that the prime minister would always consult with Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He emphasised the importance of a Cabinet reshuffle in ensuring that government policies and development agendas effectively reach the people. Additionally, he mentioned the need to reshuffle government servants, particularly highranking officers who act as ‘little Napoleons’.
“It is high time for the prime minister to appoint a second finance minister who can assist him in managing the portfolio more effectively, especially to address issues of inflation and economic uncertainty.
The Unity Government should also reshuffle the Communications and Digital Ministry, appointing someone capable of countering propaganda and fake news and overcoming the weaknesses in communication delivery,” he added.
Another political analyst, Dr Lee Kuok Tiung, also expressed support for reshuffling the federal cabinet and removing underperforming ministers.
“When discussing a Cabinet reshuffle, the main question is who is willing to step down or make way for others.
“However, we must acknowledge that people’s livelihoods are increasingly constrained by bread and butter issues. The cost of living is rising, and our nation’s economy appears stagnant, if not declining,” he stated.
Regarding GPS MPs, Lee believed that there might be changes in portfolios but not to the deputy prime minister post or any reduction in the ministerial quota. “I believe that any changes involving GPS MPs will be made in consultation and with their consent,” he added.
On Wednesday, the Prime Minister stated that he was still contemplating the possibility of a Cabinet reshuffle in the near future. Reports indicate that discussions about a Cabinet reshuffle are intensifying, and insiders strongly believe that changes to the ministerial line-up are imminent, likely occurring between late September and early October.
It was also reported that there will be a Cabinet reshuffle in Anwar’s administration, with several ministers expected to be replaced after the Pelangai by-election on October 7.
