Abu Bakar Hamzah sworn in as Perlis’ new Menteri Besar amid political transition
Abu Bakar Hamzah was sworn in as Perlis’ new Menteri Besar on 28 December at Istana Arau. The ceremony took place in the late afternoon, following a delay and heightened security around the palace. His appointment came after the previous leader stepped down due to health concerns.
The political shift began when Mohd Shukri Ramli resigned as Menteri Besar, citing health issues. Shortly after, Perlis State Assembly Speaker Rus’slele Eizan declared vacancies for three seats—Chuping, Bintong, and Guar Sanji—after PAS assemblymen reportedly withdrew support for Shukri.
Perikatan Nasional (PN) dominated the 15th General Election in Perlis, securing 14 of 15 state seats. PAS took nine, Bersatu five, while Pakatan Harapan (PH) won just one through PKR. Abu Bakar Hamzah, the new Menteri Besar, won his Kuala Perlis seat with a 1,254-vote majority.
Before taking office, Abu Bakar served in the state executive council since November 2022. He oversaw Tourism, Arts and Culture, and Rural Development. As Perlis PN deputy chairman and State Bersatu Chief, he succeeded Azlan Man, who held the Menteri Besar post until December 14.
The swearing-in ceremony saw police deployed along key routes to Istana Arau. At 4.04pm, Abu Bakar took his oath before the Raja of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Jamalullail. State Secretary Datuk Rahimi Ismail later confirmed the monarch’s approval of the appointment.
Abu Bakar Hamzah now leads Perlis as its new Menteri Besar. His party’s strong election performance and prior government experience position him as a key figure in the state’s administration. The transition follows weeks of political adjustments and security preparations.
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