Putrajaya: Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir expressed his gratitude to the government for his reappointment as a senator, a move that will allow him to continue advancing the country’s higher education development agenda.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the appointment carries a significant responsibility, particularly in ensuring the continuity of the Higher Education Development Plan and various other strategic programmes currently led by the ministry. Zambry extended his appreciation to the Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, for extending his tenure as minister and senator. He also thanked Barisan Nasional chairman, Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamid, for nominating him to continue in his role.

Zambry made these remarks in response to his swearing-in ceremony for a second term as a member of the Senate, before Dewan Negara president Datuk Awang Bemee Awang Ali Basah, putting to rest questions and speculation over his status alongside two other ministers following the conclusion of their first term on Tuesday. Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail and Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar also took their oath of office.

When asked about his Cabinet portfolio, Zambry said he would continue to carry out his existing responsibilities. In a separate statement, Anwar said the appointments of Saifuddin, Zambry, and Mohd Na’im would enable them to continue their crucial duties, ensuring continuity in policy, governance, and the nation’s reform agenda in line with the Malaysia MADANI vision.

Meanwhile, on the Putrajaya Festival of Ideas, Zambry noted the second edition made history by earning recognition from the Malaysia Book of Records as the country’s largest academic event, in addition to gaining international recognition. The event was also recognised at the ASEAN level, with participation from ministers from Indonesia and the Philippines, and has been designated as a programme under the Cabinet Committee chaired by the Deputy Prime Minister.

The event attracted around 500,000 on-site visitors at the state level and 1.4 million online participants. Zambry highlighted this as a significant national achievement, emphasizing the excellent teamwork demonstrated by the Ministry of Higher Education.