Tok Pa quits Umno, disagrees with party's direction (updated)

Malaysia will intensify collaboration with other palm oil producing countries to consider more concerted efforts to voice its strong concern before the various committees under the WTO, Mustapa said.

PETALING JAYA: Datuk Seri Mustapa Mohamed has quit Umno after more than four decades of being a member.

In a statement released on Tuesday (Sept 18) evening, Mustapa, who is Umno supreme council member and Jeli MP, said the decision is made as he felt that the party's current direction is no longer in line with the political principles he upheld and there was hardly any convincing efforts to start rejuvenating the party.

"Based on this, after much reflection and deep thought, I have decided to resign as Umno member after more than 40 years of providing service to the party," Mustapa said.

The former International Trade and Industry Minister said that after the 14th general election, he has made several observations on Malaysia's political landscape, Umno, Barisan Nasional and the country's direction.

"Based on the latest developments, I feel that it was getting difficult to salvage the diminishing trust deficit and Umno's image.

"There is no sign that the majority of the multiracial and multi-religious society will once again trust the party's struggles," he added.

Mustapa said to be relevant in a dynamic national political scenario today, Umno as the backbone of Barisan, cannot depend on the sole support of the Malays and Bumiputras.

"My political principle is that Umno should be inclusive, moderate and a party that takes the middle path.

"Umno must continue to fight for the rights of Bumiputras and Islam, but should never sideline the importance of other races and religions.

"I believe this is the best way in a multiracial country like Malaysia," he said.