He said this is the key takeaway from his recent discussion with Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

“It was a good meeting, and I must say it was a very open discussion,” he told reporters after the launch of the Madani digital trade platform here today.

“We both agreed that we must think properly about the importance of making sure any decision made is a decision that is right for me and also right for the party.”

Tengku Zafrul’s remarks come a day after Zahid said that he had advised the minister not to rush any decision about leaving the party.

The deputy prime minister said Tengku Zafrul had met him last week, where he was reminded of his key roles in Umno, including as Kota Raja division chief and an appointed Supreme Council member.

Tengku Zafrul told reporters that he accepted Zahid’s advice and was in no hurry to make a decision.

“I have engaged with the president and now, I will focus on my duties as a minister,” he said, adding that he has been given time to consider his options.

Earlier this year, speculation arose that Tengku Zafrul was planning to join PKR in a bid to become the next Selangor menteri besar. However, he denied discussing any state-level positions.

The speculation intensified when PKR president Anwar Ibrahim confirmed that talks were ongoing at the time for Tengku Zafrul to join the party.

Tengku Zafrul later said he would decide on his future with Umno after meeting Zahid.