KUALA LUMPUR: Umno’s gains in the Johor and Negri Sembilan elections have put the party back in the political spotlight, reflecting its resurgence, says its Ipoh Barat division chief.
Muhammad Iqbal Jamal Jamaluddin said the victories showed that Umno remained a political force, but its growing strength had also drawn attention from both friends and foes.
“Our victories show that Umno has regained the people’s confidence, proving that Umno still has strength.
“However, as we achieve success after success, Umno’s resurgence is beginning to be watched closely and the party is becoming a political threat to both friends and foes.
“Every action has a reaction. That is why today we are facing unfavourable circumstances and rather unpleasant political pressure,” he said when debating the president’s policy speech at the 2026 Umno General Assembly on Friday (Sept 11).
Muhammad Iqbal also questioned the timing of the attacks, saying Umno did not face such pressure when it first agreed to join the unity government.
He urged party members not to react hastily but to face any situation calmly and wisely.
This included allegations involving the siphoning of funds, which he said were among the challenges Umno had faced before.
“I would like to remind everyone that this is a major party and we have always faced conflicts like this. This is not the first time.
“That is why Umno must be brave in upholding the rule of law and brave enough to show the people that we uphold accountability,” he said.
Muhammad Iqbal said that despite the pressure, the party must have the courage to face whatever came its way.
“If we have to go to court, then let us go to court. If we are called in by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), then let us go.
“We must show that we too uphold the rule of law,” he said.
