Rafizi should prioritise day job over party politics despite rights to leave of absence

SHAH ALAM - Economy Minister Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli’s decision to take leave during a time of economic challenges has raised questions about prioritising ministerial duties over political commitments.

Political analysts and observers have urged greater sensitivity to public sentiment, emphasising the need for clear communication and appropriate timing.

Political risk consultancy KRA Group strategic director Amir Fareed Rahim said Malaysia was facing significant economic challenges amidst global uncertainties, including the lingering effects of the tariff war initiated by the United States President Donald Trump's administration.

"In such times, all hands are needed on deck to ensure the impact on Malaysia’s short- and long-term economic trajectory is minimised," he told Sinar Daily.

Amir stressed that while public officials were entitled to take leave, the timing must consider public perception as it may invite public scrutiny.

"For example, a couple of years back, the public had critised a Menteri Besar for going on leave during the floods in his state," he added.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has sought to clarify the situation, addressing speculation surrounding Rafizi’s leave amidst ongoing PKR party election.

The PKR president dismissed claims that Rafizi was on a month-long leave, saying it was reasonable for the latter to take a few days off.

Commenting further, International Islamic University Malaysia Political Science Associate Professor Dr Syaza Shukri said Rafizi who is also PKR deputy president has the right to take leave, but the bigger question was whether it was the right thing to do.

"Perhaps the job should be prioritised over party politics, especially when one held a position of national significance like the Economy Minister," she said when contacted.

Syaza pointed out that Rafizi has consistently carried out his ministerial duties over the past two years, making his current leave a noticeable shift from his usual dedication.

She added that if the leave was politically motivated, it raised questions the administration needed to address.

The move came amidst internal shifts within PKR with concerns emerging about transparency in the party’s internal election process.

"With the changes in PKR’s election structure, there might be questions about the transparency of the campaign. PKR must address this, as Rafizi is a pivotal figure whose actions carry significant weight," she said.

Meanwhile, political analyst James Chin said he acknowledged the complexities surrounding the issue.

He said according to what he has heard, Rafizi could be dealing with health issues on top of political matters, suggesting that there may be more at play than meets the eye.

He was responding to claims that Rafizi is on leave until May 31 because he was dissatisfied with the party’s election campaign.