Nazri: Ready to serve the nation but will retire in Europe if not needed

SHAH ALAM - Despite announcing his retirement from politics in the next general election, six-term Padang Rengas MP Datuk Seri Nazri Aziz says he is still ready to serve.

In an interview with Sinar Daily's Politically Frank segment, he said he is open to being appointed as an ambassador or even contesting once more as an MP.

"I am thinking of retiring in Europe, not to be in any ambassador's office.

"That’s why I want to go to Europe but then, being the good son of Malaysia, if they make me an ambassador, I cannot say no to my motherland. I will continue (to serve) when I am needed but if not, then I am happy to go,” he said.

He said this when asked over speculations about him being appointed as Malaysia’s ambassador to the US and if he is open to the idea of him being appointed as the prime minister to which he replied he does not want the life of a prime minister.

However, Nazri said to retire as a good leader it was crucial to have a successor. "To be a good leader, you also need to make sure you have a good successor.

“It’s not just about you doing this and doing that, but at the end of the day you leave the party and no one replaces you,” said the 68-year-old.

On June 3, Nazri brushed off rumours that he is set to be appointed Malaysia’s ambassador to the US, dismissing it as mere speculation.

He said this rumour could be making its rounds because the Cabinet might have made a decision on the envoy’s post, though this was subject to Washington’s agreement.