SHAH ALAM: Discussions about Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz joining PKR are in the preliminary stage, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has confirmed.
The Prime Minister said PKR has always maintained an open-door policy, allowing for healthy dialogue and inclusivity in its membership.
“PKR has always been open. Some of our leaders were once with Amanah or DAP before joining us and similarly, others have moved to and from these parties.
“We have maintained a good relationship and made these transitions smooth,” Anwar said after the PKR congress held at the Dewan Raja Muda Musa here yesterday.
He was asked about the speculation that the Investment, Trade and Industry Minister would be joining PKR.
Anwar acknowledged that discussions on Tengku Zafrul’s potential membership are still in the early stages but stressed that the party never actively recruits individuals, instead welcoming discussions initiated by interested parties.
“The same applies to Tengku Zafrul.
“We have never denied the possibility. In our culture, we do not actively persuade people to join but we are always open to dialogue.
“PKR has former Umno members as well, and that is part of our inclusive approach.
“At the moment, there are preliminary discussions (on Tengku Zafrul’s entry into PKR),” he said.
When asked whether Tengku Zafrul had formally applied to join the party, Anwar said no application had been made yet.
“There is no formal application, just discussions. We are still in talks,” he said.
In progress: Anwar speaking to reporters at the special national PKR congress at Dewan Raja Muda Musa, Shah Alam. — CHAN TAK KONG/The Star
Pressed further on whether Tengku Zafrul had expressed interest in joining PKR, Anwar declined to speak on his behalf.
“You’ll have to ask him about that. Our principle has always been to adopt an open attitude.
“If someone wants to contribute, we welcome it. But we ensure that it is done properly to maintain good relations with other parties, including Umno and our allies,” he said.
The Star reported that Tengku Zafrul, who quit his post as Selangor Umno treasurer, is set to leave the party to join PKR.
Top-level negotiations had been completed for his entry into Anwar’s party, according to those in the know.
When Tengku Zafrul quit his Selangor Umno post, he had cited differences of opinion and a lack of direction behind his decision.
On Saturday, Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari said he would remain as Mentri Besar until the end of his term to safeguard economic stability and support the Selangor unity government.
Although he did not specify details, he is believed to be referring to reports that Tengku Zafrul will join PKR and may be made the next Selangor MB.
Tengku Zafrul said yesterday that he will issue a statement regarding talk of his possible entry into PKR.
