OXFORD, UNITED KINGDOM June 11, 2026 — Former Malaysian Finance Minister Datuk Seri Utama Tengku Zafrul Aziz has emphasised that effective policymaking goes far beyond generating impressive ideas, stressing the immense difficulties of turning policies into tangible results amid real-world constraints.
In a recent episode of the Oxford Policy Podcast, produced by students at the Blavatnik School of Government, University of Oxford, Tengku Zafrul shared insights drawn from his extensive experience in both the private and public sectors.
“Many people think that policymaking is just about having big ideas,” he posted on X (formerly Twitter). “The reality is that the hardest part is not just choosing the right policy. The hardest part is ensuring that the policy can actually be implemented.”
He noted that on paper, economic reforms, industrial strategies, and investment plans often appear straightforward and compelling. However, in government, every decision must navigate complex political realities, fiscal limitations, public pressures, industry demands, and execution hurdles.
Tengku Zafrul, who currently serves as Senior Political Advisor to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Chairman of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), discussed his transition from a successful career in banking — including as CEO of CIMB Group — to public service.
His tenure as Finance Minister came during the critical early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic, followed by his role at the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), where he focused on strengthening investments, industry, and Malaysia’s regional position.
For him, a good policy is one that is not only sound in theory but implementable, easily understood by the public, and ultimately delivers benefits that citizens can feel.
The discussion was hosted by Master of Public Policy students Billy Blackett and Shifa Kusumaningrum, whom Tengku Zafrul thanked for a meaningful conversation.
Tengku Zafrul is currently a part-time Transformational Leadership Fellow at the Blavatnik School of Government, where he continues to engage with academic and policy circles on issues ranging from economic reform to global governance.
The Oxford Policy Podcast explores pressing global policy issues and is produced by students at the prestigious school. Tengku Zafrul’s episode underscores the practical realities of governance in emerging economies like Malaysia.
Photos shared alongside his post show him in the recording studio with the hosts, capturing moments under the “recording” light and group discussions.
This appearance adds to Tengku Zafrul’s growing profile in international policy dialogues, building on previous contributions such as negotiations on trade tariffs and ASEAN-related forums.
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