I still remember the lyrics, says Anwar of Umno party anthem

KUALA LUMPUR: Although 25 years have passed since he left Umno, the lyrics of the party song remain fresh in the memory of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

"I still remember the lyrics," the former Umno deputy president said after attending the Umno general assembly for the first time since 1998 after his sacking from the party.

Anwar, who is PKR president and Pakatan Harapan chairman, said he decided to attend the Umno gathering as he hoped to use it as a platform to further strengthen the unity government for the benefit of the rakyat.

"What is important is to facilitate my duty for the nation.

ALSO READ: ‘Old friend’ Anwar receives standing ovation at Umno big meet

"My experience is important but it cannot overshadow the interest of the rakyat and nation," he said when asked to describe his feeling for being able to attend the Umno assembly again after a 25-year hiatus.

"I feel comfortable and at ease because I am used to the atmosphere here.

"I memorised the (party) song by heart," he added.

Earlier, Anwar arrived at World Trade Centre KL at 9am and was greeted by Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and his deputy Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan.