Member of the Terengganu State Executive Council (Welfare, Women and Family Development & National Unity : 10 May 2018 – 15 August 2023 & Infrastructure, Utilities & Rural Development : since 16 August 2023)[note 1]
On 28 May 2024, Hanafiah called on the federal government and Prime MinisterAnwar Ibrahim to abandon the policy of targeted diesel subsidy that was set to be implemented. He argued in a video posted on TikTok that the policy would increase the burden and costs of fishing for him and other fishing enthusiasts, negatively affecting their recreational activity. He further explained that they participate in fishing to unwind and relax after working hard, rather than to earn a living. His call was widely criticised by the netizens who pointed out that subsidies are meant to provide assistance and relief to the groups and fishermen in need, not to support recreational fishing. They argued that subsidising his hobby would be a waste of resources, benefiting wealthy people, foreigners and smugglers instead of those truly in need.
