KUALA LUMPUR — Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul is taking a refreshingly realistic approach to politics, showing a pragmatic streak that’s rare in today’s political landscape.
The former International Trade and Investment Minister believes that contesting in elections is no guaranteed ticket.
“I have to be realistic… if I contest and fail, I think that is a message I will not reject,” Tengku Zafrul said
The 2022 general election saw Tengku Zafrul narrowly lose the Kuala Selangor parliamentary seat by just 1,000 votes to current Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad. Reflecting on the experience, he emphasised that contributing to the country does not require holding a parliamentary position.
“You don’t necessarily need to be in Parliament to contribute to the country,” he said.
Family considerations also play an important role in his decision-making. Tengku Zafrul has discussed his political ambitions with his team—and, crucially, with his family—before making any commitments.
Always one to challenge himself, he acknowledged that personal growth has guided his approach. Unlike some politicians who chase elections despite repeated defeats, Tengku Zafrul says he knows when to step back.
“I’m not like others who have lost two or three times, yet still want to contest,” he said.
Speaking on the Trick Lama podcast, hosted by Big Boom Media Group editor-in-chief Terence Fernandez and co-hosted by group chief executive Datuk Zainul Arifin and group executive director Datuk Ahirudin Attan, better known as Rocky Bru, Tengku Zafrul also shared his openness to opportunities in politics.
“If I get a seat, that is good enough. No one rejects a safe seat — but for me, contributing is what matters most,” he said.
In essence, Tengku Zafrul appears to be charting a path that balances ambition with realism, personal growth, family grounding, and a broad commitment to public service. – January 21, 2026