Umno needs to be a hero for the Malays, says expert

SHAH ALAM - Umno needs to be a hero for the Malays to regain the interest of voters to ensure the party's survival ahead of the next general election.

Sultan Zainal Abidin University (UniSZA) Head of Center for International Relations Studies Dr Hussain Yusri Zawawi said this strategy includes fighting for issues which is close to the Malays such as the economy, education and welfare.

"At the same time, the issues related to the Malay-Islam community also needs to be taken seriously by the Umno leadership to dismiss the perception of the party which is said to be insensitive to the issue.

"In addition, issues related to people's lives and economic pressures today need to be resolved more effectively through various approaches and good strategies so that people appreciate that Umno is working towards a better way in fighting for the lives of the Malays," he told Sinar Harian.

He commented on the statement by Umno's Supreme Council Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan that the party could get the support of the Chinese community if cooperation with Pakatan Harapan (PH) continued.

However, in the 15th General Election (GE15) and State Election, Umno suffered a heavy defeat due to the decline in Malay voter support for the party.

Commenting further, Hussain said that Umno leadership needs to be restructured so that it continues to gain support from members and the people.

"The weakness of the leadership structure will have an impact on long-term politics, not to mention if it is faced with a GE or state election.

"At the same time, Umno also needs to be a champion, especially in fighting for current issues such as pensions and salary adjustment in order to gain the people's trust in Umno so that their destiny can be fought for.

"The backbone of the government's strength is partly from the support of civil servants," he added.