Dr Mahathir slams Umno's sudden interest in organising Malay Economic Congress

SEPANG - Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad has slammed Umno's decision to hold the Malay Economic Congress while he was putting efforts in ensuring the success of the Malay Proclamation movement.

The former prime minister sarcastically remarks that despite Umno's claim to strengthen Malays, their priority remains money and bribes to gain voter support.

"It's interesting how they suddenly remember to organise the congress now. All this time, their main concern has been making money.

"They were busy seeking funds to buy votes, using money for flags, banners, and bribing voters during elections.

"If they want to win Malay voters and regain power, they will drain our resources," he told a press conference on Wednesday.

Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi previously highlighted that the Malay Economic Congress organised by Umno Youth and Puteri holds more significance than the Malay Proclamation led by Dr Mahathir. Zahid justified this by highlighting that Mahathir had previously been given the opportunity to benefit the Malay economy but failed to do so and instead complained about the situation after stepping down as the country's leader.

The Malay Economic Congress represents one of the seven agendas agreed upon during the 2023 Umno General Assembly to be implemented by the party.