KUALA LUMPUR: The upcoming Melaka state election will serve as a reference point for Umno’s future direction, with party members urged to unite and rally behind its struggle, says Melaka Umno chairman Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh.
With about 150 days to go before the polls, Ab Rauf called on party members and supporters to return and strengthen the movement, stressing that Melaka would be the model for Umno’s revival.
“Come forward and support us. Melaka will become the reference for the future of Umno and our people.
“Believe me, we cannot afford to fall again or collapse and be left stranded in our own land,” he said in his speech at Umno’s 80th Convention held at World Trade Centre here on Saturday (May 2).
“We must rise with the spirit of struggle and stand in solidarity with Umno’s cause.
“Let us rise together and show that we can once again become a strong party ahead of the next general election,” he added.
Ab Rauf said the party’s top leadership, including the president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and the supreme council members, had convened a meeting in Melaka last month, attended by leaders prepared to assist the state in facing the coming election.
He said Barisan Nasional’s previous electoral performance in Melaka demonstrated its strength, having secured 21 seats, of which Umno won 18, allowing the coalition to form a strong majority in the state legislative assembly.
“History has shown that Barisan was able to govern Melaka with a strong mandate, and this should inspire us as we prepare for the next contest,” he said.
Ab Rauf also addressed perceptions about the state administration, saying Melaka was not formed on the basis of a coalition government but stood firmly on its own footing.
However, he said the state had embraced the spirit of the unity government by appointing a representative from Pakatan Harapan to sit in the Melaka administration.
“In the three years that I have managed the state, there has not been a single disagreement in views or opinions,” he said, adding that this demonstrated stability and cooperation within the administration.
