Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has downplayed growing speculation that former health and youth minister Khairy Jamaluddin could be making a political comeback through a Cabinet reshuffle expected next month.
When questioned by reporters in Putrajaya, Anwar appeared amused and deflected the inquiry with a brief response, asking who had made such a claim. His light remark came in response to a Malaysia Gazette report suggesting that a significant Cabinet shake-up may take place in early December, with Khairy potentially being appointed as the minister for natural resources and environmental sustainability.
The report alleged that the reshuffle was aimed at streamlining the administration by reducing Cabinet size while enhancing the government’s economic leadership and policy continuity. It also hinted that the new structure would focus on strengthening Malaysia’s investment climate amid global economic uncertainties.
According to the same report, former second finance minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani was said to be a frontrunner to helm the investment, trade and industry ministry, potentially replacing the current minister. It further suggested that the economy ministry might be merged under the finance portfolio to create a more unified economic direction for the administration.
The reshuffle speculation has also extended to the deputy minister level, with the report claiming that Deputy Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Datuk R. Ramanan could be promoted to a full ministerial position. Other minor adjustments within supporting portfolios were also rumoured to be in discussion.
While the Prime Minister did not confirm or deny any of these claims, his brief response has left the door open to further speculation that changes may still be on the horizon. Political observers have noted that Anwar may be considering a recalibration of his Cabinet to address ongoing economic challenges, public dissatisfaction over living costs, and the need for stronger administrative coordination ahead of the government’s midterm mark.
Khairy’s name has been repeatedly brought up in political circles since he left Umno, with some suggesting he could return to frontline politics under a unity government arrangement. However, until now, neither Anwar nor Khairy has publicly confirmed any discussion about his possible return to government.
As of now, the Prime Minister remains noncommittal — leaving speculation swirling over whether Malaysia’s Cabinet is truly due for an end-of-year revamp.
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