KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian voters have become more discerning, compelling political parties to face a new reality where dominance is no longer assured, says Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi (pic).
The Umno president emphasised in his speech that the party must embrace this shift to remain relevant.
"There is no longer a dominant party like before the 14th General Election (GE14).
"While Umno once formed the core of political stability, today we face an era of uncertainty where parties must form coalitions, negotiate, and share power to establish a government," he said during the party’s 79th anniversary celebration on Saturday (May 11) at the World Trade Centre.
Zahid warned that voters, particularly younger generations like Gen Z and Gen Alpha, are more critical and less loyal to political parties than before.
"There is a growing trust deficit. The people are increasingly open, increasingly critical.
"Their dependency on political parties is diminishing, shaped by the image of leaders who bicker, make hollow promises, and neglect public interest," he said.
He added that younger voters are not influenced by old political rhetoric or historical narratives but by the immediacy of social media and their desire for a hopeful future.
"The future is what they yearn for - not the past. We must understand that this generation was not moulded by sentimental tales of struggle but by algorithms and digital timelines.
"If we fail to realign our messaging and values, we risk being left behind," he added.
Zahid said Umno must be pragmatic and shed outdated methods to remain relevant.
"We cannot be static. We cannot rely on old approaches to navigate this dynamic political landscape.
"We must be courageous in adapting our strategies, approaches, and operations to align with this new political reality."
Reflecting on the party’s role in forming the Unity Government, Zahid said Umno’s decision was driven not by narrow interests but a commitment to national stability.
"This was a statesmanlike decision - to safeguard the role of Islam, protect Malay and Bumiputera rights, uphold the monarchy, preserve the Malay language, and most of all, rescue the country from prolonged political turmoil," he said.
He also credited the current administration with reviving investor confidence, boosting foreign direct investment, strengthening diplomatic ties, and restoring Malaysia’s image as a stable and respected nation.
