Wake up – Opposition wanted to ‘kill’ govt from within by signing MOU, says Zahid

KUALA LUMPUR: The Opposition was not sincere when it agreed to sign the memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the government, says Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

The Umno president said he believed the Opposition had ulterior motives and intended to “kill” the government from the inside – akin to Helen of Troy from Greek mythology.

“We must realise that our opponents have never stopped trying to destroy us. When they accepted us, it was because they knew this was a way to kill us.

“Wake up! Read the constitutions of all our rival parties. You are sleeping with the enemy!” he said in his presidential address at the Umno General Assembly here on Thursday (March 18).

He also said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob would decide if the government should extend the MOU with Pakatan Harapan again after it expires on July 31.

The MOU was signed last year with Pakatan after Ismail Sabri, who is Umno vice president, became prime minister.

Under the MOU, the government agreed not to dissolve Parliament before July 31 to allow for a period of political stability.

Pakatan also agreed to support or abstain during voting on major issues in Parliament.

Ahmad Zahid also said Umno must use social media as the main communication channel to attract more young voters to the party.

“Produce as much content on TikTok, YouTube and Instagram that is powerful, simple and can go viral,” he said.

He added that this could influence and shape young voters’ views on current affairs.

“To stay relevant, Umno must flow with the transformation of the younger generation.

“The implementation of Undi18 was a huge change in the country’s political landscape,” he said, adding that recent polls victories in Melaka and Johor showed that there is support for the party from the youth.

Ahmad Zahid also said Barisan Nasional is a well-regarded “brand” that the rakyat has trusted for generations – just like Apple and Mercedes.

He said even with new political parties emerging, the people continue to support Barisan.

“Even though there are new brands coming up with similar products, consumers will prefer to choose the more renowned brands.

"That is why Barisan remains in the hearts of the people even though there are newer parties,” said Ahmad Zahid.

Umno's Youth, Wanita and Puteri wings held their meetings on Wednesday and Thursday (March 16 and 17) and the Umno general assembly will end Saturday (March 19).