SHAH ALAM - Former Umno Youth exco, Datuk Muhamad Muqharabbin Mokhtarrudin has quit the party to join Perikatan Nasional (PN).
He said the decision was made after he felt that his struggle for the principles of 'No DAP' and 'No Anwar' after the 15th General Election had been in vain.
"What is the use of attending meetings every month when, in the end, we are deceived and made fools of?
"I believe more in the strength of Muafakat Nasional, which should rightfully lead the country, but unfortunately, a handful of Umno leaders have sabotaged all the efforts that have been built.
"I chose to join PN today after the candidate nomination day, so the people know that I am not seeking positions or candidacy; instead, I want to strengthen the unity of the Malay race," he said in a Facebook post today.
He added that even though he is no longer with Umno, he will always respect and cherish the party.
"I extend my gratitude to everyone in Umno who has battled together, as it is a memory- creating, priceless experience.
"This is especially when we first became the opposition, putting everything on the line and working tirelessly to revive the party.
"I still have great, kind friends in Umno, and they will always remain so. Who knows, PN and BN might join forces again tomorrow," he said.
He further stressed that his decision to leave Umno was done in good faith, and not as if leaving Islam.
"So I urge everyone to fight for Islam and be civilised and dignified Malays," he said.
The former Lembah Pantai Youth chief also urged the government to fulfill its promises to the voters and the people, since the current situation is showing the opposite.
"I support what is right and speak up against what is wrong, as long as the people benefit.
"Costs of living has increased, the economy is declining, the ringgit has depreciated significantly, fuel prices do not decrease, salaries do not increase, electricity prices rise, the Overnight Policy Rate (OPR) is soaring, the prices of goods are uncontrollable, and ultimately, the people suffer," he said.