AMPANG MP Datuk Zuraida Kamaruddin has left Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin-led Bersatu to join newly-formed Parti Bangsa Malaysia (PBM).
In a statement the plantation industries and commodities minister said that she has decided to join PBM because of its principles of multiracial engagement, women empowerment, youth empowerment, economic development, education and the advancement of science and technology as elements to make Malaysia a developed country.
“I see a lot of potential in PBM, especially at a time when Malaysians are tired of the old politics, which stifle the progress of the country,” she commented.
“God willing, my participation, as well as experience, will help steer PBM to greater heights, especially ahead of the upcoming general election. My participation will also help fill the void of women leadership in the country.
“Since its establishment, PBM has been getting stronger and now has several members of Parliament and state assemblypersons in its ranks.”
In her statement Zuraida also said that she will meet Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob “soonest” to discuss her resignation as the Plantation Industries and Commodities Minister, alongside the role and direction of PBM in strengthening the Keluarga Malaysia Government.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin and Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob for their trust in appointing me as a Cabinet minister,” she said.
“Throughout my services in both Ministries I gave my best and brought about numerous positive changes to the people and their lives. I also want to thank you all for the solid support I received throughout my servicee in the Ministries.”
PBM was launched on Dec 21 last year and is headed by Julau MP Larry Sng. With Zuraida’s entry to the party, PBM currently has three MPs and two state assemblypersons.
Malaysiakini previously reported on Feb 2, 2022 that Bersatu’s supreme council had discussed firing Zuraida and several others in the party over alleged involvement with PBM which was set up by a group of former PKR leaders known to be aligned to her.
Supreme council member Muhammad Faiz Na’aman also told the news portal that the matter was brought up during Bersatu’s meeting on Jan 25.
There have been speculations of Zuraida’s departure from Bersatu since late last year alongside rumours of her fallout with the Bersatu party leadership.
These speculations intensified following a large number of members from Penggerak Komuniti Negara, an association led by Zuraida’s known associates – officially joined PBM. – May 25, 2022
