KUALA LUMPUR: Barisan Nasional is not easily defeated when facing challenges because the grassroots support from its component parties is strong, says Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir.
The Barisan secretary-general paid tribute to Umno, MCA, MIC, PBRS and Friends of BN as well as the political leadership and service provided by its leaders for the coalition’s continued resilience.
“The strength we still have lies in the grassroots, the leadership with moderate and nation-building values, unity and a commitment to great political service.
“Great institutions are not built to fall; they are forged to endure, adapt and rise again stronger than before.
“Barisan’s legacy is its strength, and its future lies in its unity and unwavering commitment to the people,” said Zambry at the Barisan convention held to celebrate its golden jubilee yesterday.
He said despite the difficulties and attacks from all directions, Barisan remains standing boldly to deliver the truth and fight falsehoods and slander.
“Today, Barisan is part of the unity government. In Barisan’s five-decade journey, we have faced hardships but we have also had our moments of glory. Major crises have occurred, but they were turned into opportunities.
“This is because we are not a party that destroys or dismantles, but one that builds,” he said.
He further highlighted that Barisan’s long struggle has been focused on realising political cooperation, power-sharing, moderate politics, service-oriented politics, development politics and national stability.
Zambry also praised the delegates from the component parties who gathered to show their support to Barisan, even amid the floods affecting many states.
“We are all moved by the plight of our friends affected by the floods in Kelantan, Terengganu, Kedah and elsewhere. Yet, despite these challenges, they have come here in the spirit of Barisan.
“Today, we have over 5,000 attendees,” he said.
The coalition, founded in June 1974, is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.
Barisan replaced the Alliance Party and at its peak, the coalition had 13 component parties.
