Kuala Lumpur: The decision by Economy Minister Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli and Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad to resign from the Cabinet is a principled move that must be respected, according to Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. Ahmad Zahid emphasized that both Rafizi and Nik Nazmi have made effective contributions and supported all government decisions.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid highlighted the integrity of Rafizi and Nik Nazmi, noting their adherence to a promise to resign if they lost in the PKR election. “They are principled. That was their promise, and we respect that stance,” he stated. Although the government does not interfere in a party’s internal matters, Ahmad Zahid expressed that the two ministers have significantly contributed to and supported all Cabinet decisions.

Ahmad Zahid made these remarks to reporters after attending the recording of the Desaku Mendunia Concert and the Pre-Launch Ceremony of the 3D Mega Carnival at Angkasapuri. He also mentioned that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim holds the authority to appoint successors from Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) to fill the vacancies left by Rafizi and Nik Nazmi. “Leaders come and go, and so do ministers. The Prime Minister will select the best individuals from the party to serve in the Cabinet,” he added.

Earlier today, Rafizi and Nik Nazmi announced their resignations from the Cabinet, effective June 17 and July 4 respectively, following their defeats in the 2025 PKR party elections held last week. Rafizi failed to retain his position as PKR Deputy President after losing to Nurul Izzah Anwar, while Nik Nazmi lost in the contest for a Vice President post.

The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), in a statement tonight, confirmed that Anwar had received letters from Rafizi and Nik Nazmi requesting leave and resignation from their Cabinet posts. The PMO stated that the Prime Minister had approved both leave applications, and any further decisions on their resignations would be announced later.