KUALA LUMPUR: Toxic politics is at an unprecedented scale and has caused the loss of values among Malays, says Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan.
"The Malay political landscape has changed tremendously in recent years.
"We are now witnessing the emergence of toxic politics on an unprecedented scale.
"It manifests itself in all forms of lies, hate and insults," the Umno deputy president said at the joint opening of the Umno Youth, Wanita and Puteri wings on Wednesday night (Aug 21).
Mohamad said that Umno's future depends on how effectively toxic politics can be eradicated and reminded members that hate and degrading speeches do not reflect the party's morals.
"Mature and courteous ways of politicking among the Malays have died. Toxic politics has destroyed values and idealism – we must fight this," he said.
He noted that social media is where toxic politics is most prevalent.
Mohamad reminded delegates that Malaysia was not spared from the "Gen Z revolution" several countries have experienced.
He said failure to manage the aspirations of young voters would result in an undesirable outcome for Umno in the next general election.
"They have no sentimental attachment to Umno and grew up in an era where our party is no longer dominant," he said, adding this is where Umno Youth and Puteri wings must step up and win them over.
Failure to do so, he said, would see Umno slide further in the national political landscape.
