Zahid swears commitment to Malay, Islam, and Bumiputera amidst internal dissent and former foes' presence

Focus

By KOUSALYA SELVAM

09 Jun 2023 12:14pm

Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi - FILEPIC

KUALA LUMPUR - Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Hamidi once again emphasized the party's unwavering commitment to championing core issues concerning the Malay, Islam, and Bumiputera amidst internal dissents by those unsettled with the party's alliance with former foes.

Speaking not only before party delegates but also in the presence of former adversaries, Zahid in his policy speech for the party's general meeting for the year 2023, reiterated his stance, underscoring his leadership's steadfast dedication to Umno's fundamental struggles.

"To our allies, do not hurt the hearts and feelings of the Malays," said Zahid, sternly in the Merdeka Hall at the party's HQ in the Kuala Lumpur World Trade Centre today.

"Let us refrain from stirring up the feelings of the Malays. And likewise, let us avoid words and actions that may cause discomfort to our friends and colleagues," the Bagan Datuk MP continued.

Yesterday, the party's youth wing adamantly demanded DAP to apologise over its past insulting remarks that the predominantly Chinese party hurled against Umno over the past decades back when the two parties were still enemies.

Apart from the bid to assuage party members, Zahid also, hurled tacit salvos against Perikatan Nasional (PN), describing the coalition as traitors who wrap themselves in the slogan of "clean and stable."

"We also often hear accusations against Umno, alleging that it hides behind the name of Bumiputeras. However, within just two years at the pinnacle of power, the so-called champions of the Bumiputeras have already betrayed them.

"Jana Wibawa," said Zahid in referrence to the RM5.7 billion Jana Wibawa projects done under the previous PN-led administration which have been put on hold due to corruption charges.

Also present in the Merdeka Hall are Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim who is also PKR president, DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke and Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.