KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA December 22, 2025 – Hannah Yeoh, the newly appointed Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories), officially commenced her duties today, marking her first day in the role following a cabinet reshuffle announced by Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim on December 16.
Yeoh, a DAP lawmaker and Segambut MP who previously served as Youth and Sports Minister, expressed gratitude to the Federal Territories Department for their warm welcome. In a statement shared on social media, she outlined her commitment to leading Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, and Labuan with “transparency, responsibility, and a clear understanding of the realities faced by our communities.”
Her key priorities include enhancing public service quality and reliability, promoting sustainable development, protecting green spaces and recreational areas, and improving flood mitigation measures. “This is a heavy responsibility, and I will uphold it with integrity, discipline, and resolve, in line with the MADANI Government’s aspirations,” Yeoh said.
She highlighted the strength of her team, noting that both she and Deputy Minister Datuk Lo Su Fui are legally trained, which will support good governance. Lo’s appointment from Sabah also underscores the government’s focus on greater attention to Labuan, the offshore financial centre among the Federal Territories.
Yeoh addressed ongoing discussions about her historic appointment as the first non-Malay to hold the portfolio, stating: “Race or skin colour has never defined or limited my work.” Reflecting on her political career since 2008 – including roles as Subang Jaya state assemblyman, Selangor State Legislative Assembly Speaker, Segambut MP, and previous ministerial positions – she emphasised a consistent focus on “policy, delivery, and results.”
“I am ready to hit the ground running and let my track record speak for itself,” she added, pledging close collaboration with all Federal Territories MPs to amplify the “sacred” voice of the people.
Yeoh envisions the Federal Territories as models for the nation: clean, safe, and vibrant places where residents can “live, work, and enjoy life to its fullest.” Major policy decisions will continue to be made collectively by the Cabinet.
The appointment has drawn mixed reactions, with some praising it as merit-based and inclusive, while others raised concerns about representation. Deputy Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi assured that it would not undermine any community’s interests, emphasising the Madani government’s commitment to inclusiveness.
Yeoh’s transition follows her replacement of Dr Zaliha Mustafa in the reshuffle, which aimed to strengthen economic focus and administrative efficiency.
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