KUALA LUMPUR, July 28 ― Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak is expected to reshuffle the Cabinet as early as this week, with close allies set to receive promotions, Umno-linked Utusan Malaysia reported today.

According to anonymous sources cited by the Malay language newspapers, the prime minister has met with Yang diPertuan Agong Tuanku Halim Mu'adzam Shah to submit the new Cabinet lineup.

The sources also told Utusan that there will be changes to several portfolios including one that will see Datuk Abdul Rahman Dahlan promoted to a more senior ministry.

The urban wellbeing, local government and housing minister who has been an outspoken of Najib on the topic of 1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB) is said to be replacing Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek as communications and multimedia minister.

The reshuffle will also see former MIC president Datuk Seri G. Palanivel dropped from his his position of natural resources and environment minister.

The Cabinet position meant for MIC is expected to be left empty till the party crisis is resolved in the fresh elections this September.

Among others, another leader from Sabah is to be appointed to the Cabinet as well as two other deputy ministers are to be promoted and given full portfolios.