Kuala Lumpur: Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Aziz stated today that any decision he makes about his political affiliation will first be discussed with UMNO president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. Speaking to reporters after attending the Golf KITA 2025 charity event, the UMNO Supreme Council member emphasized that an official announcement would only be made following discussions with Ahmad Zahid.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, there has been speculation that Tengku Zafrul might leave UMNO due to uncertainty regarding his future within the party. This follows media reports suggesting that he had received an invitation to join PKR a few months ago. The event was officiated by the Sultan of Pahang, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, and attended by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.

In a separate matter, Tengku Zafrul addressed media reports about suggestions from certain parties for him to be appointed as Malaysia's Ambassador to the United States after his senatorial term concludes in December. He remarked that any future position would be determined by the Prime Minister. Nevertheless, Tengku Zafrul conveyed that his current priority is to fulfill his responsibilities at MITI, particularly with Malaysia assuming the role of ASEAN chairman this year.

Recently, former Bangi Member of Parliament Ong Kian Ming proposed five individuals for consideration as Malaysia's next Ambassador to the United States. The list included Tengku Zafrul and PKR Vice President Nurul Izzah Anwar.