Hannah Yeoh Makes History While Two Ministers Get The Boot In Anwar’s Cabinet Shake-Up

Yeoh is the first non-Malay to hold the Federal Territories Minister portfolio, replacing the ousted Datuk Seri Zaliha Mustafa.

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DAP’s Hannah Yeoh has become the first non-Malay to hold the Federal Territories portfolio in Malaysia, following a major cabinet reshuffle announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

She replaces PKR’s Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa, who was dropped from the cabinet.

Before becoming a federal minister, Yeoh, who hails from Subang Jaya, Selangor, served as the first female Speaker of a Malaysian state parliament.

The Federal Territories DAP vice chairperson has also held other positions, including Deputy Minister of Women, Family and Community Development.

Yeoh, a law graduate from the University of Tasmania, served as the Minister for Youth and Sports prior to the reshuffle, and actively worked on social issues, with a focus on youth development and community engagement.

Beside Yeoh, DAP’s representation in the Madani Cabinet comprises five full ministers including Steven Sim (Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives), Gobind Singh Deo (Digital), Anthony Loke (Transport), Nga Kor Ming (Housing and Local Government), along with seven deputy ministers across various portfolios including Datuk Chan Foong Hin, Teo Nie Ching, Liew Chin Tong, M. Kulasegaran, Wong Kah Woh, Lim Hui Ying and Mordi Bimol.

Mixed Reactions to Hannah Yeoh’s Historic Appointment

Yeoh’s appointment as Federal Territories Minister has led to polarized reactions on social media, reflecting the political sensitivities surrounding the historic move.

Social media users questioned the rationale behind replacing Dr. Zaliha with Yeoh, asking whether the change would bring improvements.

However, some were more receptive to the appointment, expressing hope that Yeoh would address concerns regarding DBKL (Kuala Lumpur City Hall) operations.

Others users took a more cynical view, suggesting that placing someone from DAP in the position amid existing tensions would make them a “punching bag” for public frustration.

The mixed reactions show that Yeoh faces a tough job ahead in her new role.

As Federal Territories Minister, she’ll have to balance running the ministry while also winning over residents from different backgrounds who may have different views about her appointment.

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Act Fairly – UMNO Youth Warns New FT Minister

Meanwhile, Federal Territory UMNO Youth Chief Datuk Aliff Firdaus Abd Hadi expressed concerns over Yeoh’s appointment as Federal Territories Minister, emphasizing that the position is strategically important as it affects the nation’s political and social landscape.

He said the appointment has raised worries among the Malay community, particularly regarding the potential implementation of party agendas such as local authority elections and the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA).

Aliff noted that the minister’s role on the Pardons Board demands absolute fairness free from political interests.

While congratulating Yeoh on her appointment, he reminded her that the responsibility she carries is a trust from the people and urged her to act fairly, professionally, and not sideline the interests of urban Malays.

He stressed that Federal Territory UMNO Youth will continue monitoring developments to defend the rights of the Malay community in the capital.

We once again congratulate you and wish you well in your duties, with hopes that the Federal Territories will continue to prosper.

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