Zulkifli Hasan Appointed Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department for Religious Affairs

PUTRAJAYA, El Sky News — Zulkifli Hasan has officially been appointed Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) following a Cabinet reshuffle announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. The appointment took effect after a swearing-in ceremony held at Istana Negara, witnessed by Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim, on Wednesday.

Background of the Appointment

Zulkifli Hasan previously served as Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) and was elevated to the full ministerial post after the position became vacant. His appointment forms part of a broader Cabinet restructuring aimed at strengthening governance and improving policy delivery under the Unity Government.

The reshuffle saw several new ministers and deputy ministers sworn in to lead key portfolios within the federal administration.

Profile and Experience

Zulkifli Hasan is known for his background in religious administration and policy coordination. As a Senator in the Dewan Negara, he has been actively involved in matters related to Islamic affairs, interfaith harmony, and institutional governance.

His experience within the same portfolio is seen as an advantage in ensuring continuity, stability, and effective implementation of religious policies at the national level.

Institutional Response

The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) welcomed the appointment, expressing confidence in Zulkifli Hasan’s leadership. Senior officials highlighted their expectation that the new minister would continue strengthening Islamic governance while promoting moderation, unity, and social harmony in Malaysia’s multiracial society.

Support was also extended by various religious institutions, emphasizing cooperation in advancing national religious policies.

Minister’s Vision and Priorities

In his first remarks following the swearing-in ceremony, Zulkifli Hasan reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting an inclusive, moderate, and compassionate approach to Islam, aligned with Malaysia’s constitutional framework and diverse social fabric.

He stressed that religious affairs play a crucial role in nation-building and social cohesion, and must be managed with wisdom, balance, and respect for pluralism.

Broader Context

The Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) oversees multiple agencies, including JAKIM, which are responsible for Islamic administration, religious education, community development, and policy coordination nationwide.

Zulkifli Hasan’s appointment is expected to further enhance institutional reforms and strengthen Malaysia’s role as a model for moderate and inclusive Islamic governance. The appointment of Zulkifli Hasan as Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) marks a significant development in Malaysia’s political landscape. With his prior experience and institutional knowledge, the government anticipates steady leadership in managing religious affairs while fostering national unity and social stability.

(Lunar)