KUALA LUMPUR: Political cooperation and election strategies dominated debates at the Umno wings’ assemblies, with delegates reminding leadership not to let political cooperation compromise the party’s strength and identity.
Wanita Umno chief Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad said the party must not allow political cooperation to erode its voice or standing, outlining five principles to guide Umno in any political partnership.
She said while the party was aware of the need for cooperation and compromise, particularly in the interest of political stability, it must not compromise to the point where others perceived it as having no principles of its own.
“We can sit at the same table, but we must not allow our seat and our voice to become smaller and smaller,” she said in her policy speech at the Wanita Umno assembly.
The five core principles stipulated that any cooperation must preserve the party’s foundational struggle, dignity, national stability, Malaysia’s multiracial fabric and grassroots feedback.
Noraini added that while cooperation should not dilute Umno’s identity, that identity must not serve as an excuse to reject working with others.
Selangor Umno Youth delegate Shah Zanuriman Nuar Paras Khan suggested that the state chapter work directly with PAS rather than the broader Perikatan Nasional coalition.
Without naming specific parties, he claimed certain allies lacked structural strength yet expected seat allocations.
“They still rely on PAS and our machinery. History shows that Muafakat Nasional failed because of a third party. If discussions happen, they should only be with PAS,” he said.
Echoing the sentiment, Puteri Umno delegate Nur Farhana Ab Ghani emphasised that the party’s core identity must remain intact during negotiations.
“Umno’s dignity must be upheld, and the interests of the people, religion and race protected. Our party must approach the negotiating table with dignity and clear principles,” she said.
Negri Sembilan Youth delegate Mohd Safbary Zal Abd Manaf noted that modern voters feel no sense of obligation to political parties.
“They do not vote for us out of past gratitude or friendship; they vote for us when they are confident we can deliver,” he said, adding that party machinery must remain active year-round rather than just during election cycles.
He proposed that every division publish its performance report card on social media, urging Umno to shift its focus away from internal matters towards the immediate issues affecting the public.
While acknowledging high morale following recent victories in the Johor and Negri Sembilan state polls, he cautioned delegates against complacency.
“Yes, they trusted us to lead, but will they still make that choice in the future?” he asked.
