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THE latest cabinet reshuffle in Malaysia reflects a subtle but significant recalibration of political power within the unity government, with UMNO leaders gaining prominence, DAP figures experiencing reduced influence, and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim appearing to position himself strategically ahead of the next general election.
Political analyst Dr Azmi Hassan of Akademi Nusantara described the ministerial appointments as signalling a clear shift in the balance between the DAP and Umno.
He noted that several DAP MPs have been assigned to ministries perceived as less strategically significant.
Citing the appointment of Hannah Yeoh as Federal Territories Minister and Steven Sim as Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives as examples of portfolios with comparatively lower political weight.
“In the current political configuration, DAP is in a weakened position,” he said, adding that the party’s representation in the cabinet no longer reflects the influence it once held.
By contrast, UMNO leaders have seen their standing enhanced. Azmi highlighted Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani’s appointment as Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) and Datuk Seri Noraini Ahmad’s elevation from deputy minister to full minister heading the Plantation and Commodities Ministry.
“Over the past two to three years, UMNO ministers have been given opportunities to demonstrate their administrative capabilities.”
“They have been able to show results and deliver work, which has strengthened their standing within the government,” he said.
Political scientist Professor James Chin of Tasmania University offered a broader political reading, describing PKR as the main beneficiary of the reshuffle, while identifying DAP as the primary loser.
Chin said the cabinet composition sends a clear signal to Malay voters, suggesting that Anwar is consolidating his position as a pro-Malay leader.
“PKR is the biggest winner, while DAP is the loser,” Chin said, cautioning that such a strategy carries risks and may not necessarily erode support for PAS , whose Malay voter base remains deeply entrenched.
He stressed that the ultimate judgment would depend on the cabinet’s performance in managing economic issues, including growth and cost-of-living pressures.
“This cabinet must deliver results, especially on the economy. For Anwar, it is a make-or-break moment as the country moves toward the next general election,” Chin added.
Meanwhile, Datuk Dr Sivamurugan Pandian described the reshuffle as largely conservative and predictable, aimed at maintaining political stability rather than introducing major structural changes.
Only two ministers and one deputy minister were dropped from the cabinet, he noted, suggesting a focus on fine-tuning rather than drastic overhaul.
Sivamurugan acknowledged that Umno benefited from the reshuffle, with several of its leaders, including Johari, Noraini, and Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup, being elevated to full ministerial positions.
However, he rejected claims that DAP had been sidelined, arguing that the overall cabinet composition remains balanced among coalition partners.
“The reshuffle was predictable and stable. It was balanced and appropriate for maintaining stability,” he said.
Earlier today Anwar announced a cabinet reshuffle with Hannah Yeoh being assigned as Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Federal Territories).
Prior to this, Yeoh was the youth and sports minister.
Steven Sim has been made the new Minister of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development who was previously the Human Resources Minister.
Taking over from Sim will be Datuk Seri R. Ramanan who is the PKR vice president.
Liew Chin Tong was named the new Deputy Finance Minister, while Datuk Mustapha Sakmud was appointed Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department overseeing Sabah and Sarawak Affairs.
Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir has been entrusted with leading the Ministry of Economy, taking charge of national economic planning and reform initiatives.
Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani was appointed Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, a portfolio central to Malaysia’s trade relations and industrial growth strategy. – December 17, 2025