Tengku Zafrul Aziz steps down from MITI after three years of service

Malaysia’s now-former Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry has bid farewell to the ministry after three years at the helm. MITI and its agencies reflected on his leadership and the milestones achieved during his tenure.

The Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) marked the final monthly assembly with YB Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz on 2 December 2025. According to a Facebook post by MITI, the session served as a moment of appreciation for his contributions since joining MITI on 3 December 2022.

MITI stated that under Tengku Zafrul’s leadership, the ministry advanced a range of key efforts aimed at strengthening Malaysia’s investment, trade and industrial landscape. The post highlighted how MITI had taken “a step more confidently” in modernising policies, deepening regional cooperation and supporting industries that create wider opportunities for Malaysians.

The ministry also credited his guidance for inspiring MITI citizens to serve with greater commitment. It extended its appreciation for his support throughout his service, noting that he consistently encouraged teams to uplift collective efforts and continue reinforcing the ministry’s role in Malaysia’s economic development. The message concluded with well wishes for his future endeavours, expressing the hope that he continues to progress in every next step.

Tengku Zafrul also took to Facebook to share his personal farewell. He wrote that after “three meaningful years”, it was time for him to close this chapter, describing his departure from MITI as bittersweet but marked by pride in what had been achieved together. He emphasised that MITI’s success was never dependent on any single minister, but on the combined efforts of all MITI citizens and its agencies, which he described as the backbone of the nation’s economy.

Before stepping away, he shared three key messages with the MITI community. First, he reminded civil servants of their vital responsibility to deliver the best service to the country and its people. Second, he encouraged them to support one another, take pride in their work and nurture teamwork. Third, he stressed that integrity must remain non-negotiable, urging them to always reject abuse of power and corruption, noting that integrity “takes years to build, but minutes to destroy”.

He closed his message by assuring them: “I will always be MITI's number one cheerleader no matter where I am. Take care of yourself and keep MITI's good name!”

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Lead image / Tengku Zafrul Facebook