KUALA LUMPUR: Umno needs to further strengthened the Malay-Muslim political agenda in order to remain relevant in the future, says its deputy president Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan.
In his address in conjunction with the party's 73rd anniversary, he said the spirit to fight for the national Malay agenda must be guided by a deeper Islamic understanding.
"The best example is through the unity of the community of Umno and PAS, which is currently being explored," said Mohamad Hasan, or Tok Mat as he is popularly know, at the breaking-of-fast event here at Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC) on Saturday (May 11).
Also present at the event were PAS secretary-general Datuk Takiyuddin Hassan, PAS ulama chief Datuk Dr Mahfodz Mohamed and PAS information chief Nasruddin Hassan Tantawi.
Mohamad Hasan said it was timely for Umno to give a new "breath" to the Umno-PAS political construct.
"Both Umno and PAS members shares the same God and believe in the same prophets, but due to political ego, it has caused conflict between us for decades.
"It is unfortunate for Muslims, (that) with such divisive politics, we end up praying in different mosques.
"Let us now destroy the narratives and build new cooperation based on the spirit of the Malay-Muslim political agenda in the interest of the community," he added.
However, he stressed that the fight for Malay Muslim agenda would not sideline other communities.
"The Islamic political concept is supported by national intentions but guided by a stronger sense of unity for all," he said.
MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong, his deputy Datuk Dr Mah Hang Soon and the Umno top leadership were also in attendance.