KUALA LUMPUR: A house unification committee will be set up to welcome and facilitate the return of former party leaders to Umno, says Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
The Umno president said the Jawatankuasa Penyatuan Rumah Bangsa would serve as a platform to reunite with those who had strayed from the party, adding that the party must remain open, inclusive and rooted in its original struggle.
“To this end, the doors of Rumah Bangsa will always be wide open. This is where we were born and raised, and where we learned the true meaning of struggle.
“To welcome the return of our brothers and sisters, our siblings and family members, the committee will facilitate the re-entry or participation of anyone, whether individual or group, into Rumah Bangsa,” he said to thunderous applause as he delivered his policy address at the opening of the 79th Umno general assembly at Dewan Merdeka here yesterday.
Ahmad Zahid, who is the Deputy Prime Minister, described Umno as the original “home” of Malay politics.
“From this home emerged our Independence, the Federal Constitution, elevation of Islam as the pillar of the nation, and upholding the sovereignty of the Malay Rulers.
“This house is more than just walls and a roof. It serves as the foundation of a nation, an umbrella embracing all religious, ethnic and cultural backgrounds,” he added.
Ahmad Zahid said Umno’s Rumah Bangsa history could never be erased, with Malay-based political parties and movements having emerged.
“From this home, many Malay political parties and movements started. PAS, Semangat 46, PKR, Bersatu, Pejuang, Warisan, GRS, even GPS sharing in the spirit of nationhood.
“Some arose from conflict and disappointment, others from differences in direction and incompatible platforms,” he pointed out.
Ahmad Zahid questioned how long more would Malay-based political parties continue to quarrel and bicker with each other to the detriment of the nation.
“When the wings of a bird are broken it will struggle to soar... Umno must step forward as the leader.
“If division is allowed to persist, both sides would end up the loser. Umno must therefore be the bridge, mending fractured bonds and uniting scattered voices,” he said.
