Malaysian Media Suggest Zafrul May Return As FinMin, Zahid May Become Deputy PM

Speculation surrounding the composition of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's Cabinet is doing the rounds in Malaysian media outlets ahead of the announcement of at least partial Cabinet line-up scheduled for 8:15pm.

• The New Straits Times runs a source report noting that PKR Secretary General Saifuddin, Pakatan Harapan's Maszlee and Zafrul will be appointed senators to allow their entry to the Cabinet. All three failed to win seats in lower house elections and the Malaysian constitution stipulates that only lawmakers can hold ministerial portfolios.
• Saifuddin is expected to become Education Minister, a post he held in the previous Pakatan Harapan government. Zafrul may be tapped to return as Finance Minister after holding the portfolio in the Ismail Sabri and Muhyiddin Cabinets.
• The New Straits Times had earlier reported that the new senators could be sworn in today, but is now suggesting that the ceremony could be postponed until tomorrow.
• Separately, UMNO sources told Malaysiakini that Zahid Hamidi is "almost certain" to become Deputy Prime Minister, in line with his position as party leader.