KUALA LUMPUR: Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has reaffirmed the party's commitment to the unity government but warns that the party's patience is not without limits.
In his policy speech at the Umno general assembly here on Friday (Jan 16), he said that in forging cooperation since before Independence and until today, relationships have not been built on theatrics or through intrigue or deception.
"Instead, Umno has always held fast to the principle that loyalty must be repaid with respect, and consensus must be accompanied by sincerity and honesty.
"Do not think of Umno as a 'curry leaf party', like curry leaves that are thrown into the pan when cooking, but pushed aside when the dish is served.
"Let it be remembered, Umno is a central pillar of the nation’s stability," he said to loud applause from the floor.
Ahmad Zahid added that the party does not seek any special treatment, but at the same time, it should not be regarded as mere window-dressing or an "accessory" in a coalition.
