KUALA LUMPUR — The Prime Minister’s Office confirmed today the appointment of Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz as Senior Political Adviser to the Prime Minister, effective immediately.
His two-year term will see him take on significant responsibilities in shaping the country’s political landscape. In an official statement, the Prime Minister expressed hope that Tengku Zafrul would approach his duties with “humility and dedication, for the prosperity of the nation and the well-being of the people.”
This position had been vacant since November 2025 following the resignation of Datuk Seri Shamsul Iskandar Mohd Akin, who stepped down as Senior Political Secretary.
Shamsul’s resignation followed controversy over his involvement in a letter of support for contractors in a hospital project, citing efforts to undermine him and safeguard the government’s image. He is currently facing five graft charges involving RM216,000, which he has applied to transfer from the Sessions Court to the High Court, citing complex constitutional issues. The hearing is scheduled for April 9, 2026
Tengku Zafrul, 52, has an extensive political and corporate background. He previously served as Malaysia’s Finance Minister and International Trade and Industry Minister, where he played a key role in the country’s economic recovery during the Covid-19 pandemic, introducing stimulus packages and fiscal reforms.
He later oversaw strategies aimed at enhancing Malaysia’s global competitiveness.
Beyond politics, Tengku Zafrul was elected unopposed in May 2025 as the 13th President of the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM), succeeding Tan Sri Norza Zakaria.
His leadership was endorsed by Anwar, who gave approval for him to helm the national badminton body despite his ministerial role at the time.
Tengku Zafrul pledged to elevate Malaysian badminton internationally, presenting a roadmap for BAM’s future direction within his first 100 days in office
Before his political career, Tengku Zafrul was the Group CEO of CIMB Bank, having held senior roles in investment banking and asset management. – March 4, 2026