PETALING JAYA: Calls are growing for former Umno members to return to the party, described as a “big house” that has long united and safeguarded the interests of Malays.
Umno vice-president Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said party president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi had opened the door widely for those who had previously left the party to come back.
He said the appeal should be received with openness by all parties.
According to him, Umno was not merely a political movement but a key institution that had historically served as a platform to protect, develop and unite the Malay community.
“Umno is a ‘big house’ built to protect and advance the Malays. It does not belong to any individual but is a home for the entire community,” he said in a statement Sunday (March 8).
Mohamed Khaled said disagreements and differences within a large political family were normal and should not lead to hostility towards the party.
He added that Umno had played a crucial role in linking the period of colonial rule to independence and had helped uplift the community from poverty while promoting Islam as a progressive religion.
“Despite its strengths and shortcomings, Umno continues to serve as a bulwark in safeguarding the dignity and interests of the Malays,” he said.
Mohamed Khaled urged those who had once been with the party to consider returning, saying the party remained strong and continued to offer a platform for unity.
