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QUOTE PHOTO: Aristotle
QUOTE: ‘The only stable principle of government is equality according to proportion, and for every man to enjoy his own.’ – Aristotle, Greek philosopher
One thing is quite clear for the unity government. If Umno stands solidly behind the coalition, the Madani administration of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is expected to finish its term until the next general election in 2027.
Malaysians can be assured, at least for now, that the unity government will complete its full term after Umno, a key partner, declared that the party will steadfastly support the Madani government and Anwar as head of the governing coalition.
Two recent statements from Umno leaders in recent days provided strong testimonies and confirmation of the party’s unwavering support, seen as crucial given Umno’s significant role in the unity government.
Last Friday, Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi announced that he would not betray his friends in the unity government, rejecting recent attempts by the opposition to withdraw support.
He disclosed that he was even offered the prime minister’s post if Umno/BN would agree to form a new government with the opposition Perikatan Nasional.
The New Straits Times quoted Zahid as telling opposition MPs, “No way, don’t ever waste your time; I will not betray my friends and that is what I stand by.”
“We must strengthen this unity government,” he said at the Federal Territories BN convention in Kuala Lumpur, adding that opposition MPs approached him just last week, urging him to establish a “new unity government”.
Say what you like about Zahid, but he deserves credit this time for not betraying Anwar and his colleagues and allies. I will give the Umno president a thumbs-up for his wisdom in taking a correct and honourable stand, even though I’m not a Zahid fan.
On Monday, another positive vibe emerged from Umno when the party’s secretary-general, Datuk Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki, praised the unity government’s second-anniversary celebration as a proven formula that should be upheld and defended.
Asyraf also called for efforts to strengthen relations between unity government parties to be redoubled, and for Umno representatives in government to continue improving their work performance.
Again, wise and responsible words from a leader of an important coalition partner. I see potential in the younger Asyraf, and it was a correct move by Zahid to replace the dull Datuk Ahmad Mazlan with Asyraf as secretary-general of the party.
I believe that supporters of the Madani government will be eternally grateful to Umno because the party’s decision to support Anwar’s leadership following the 2022 general election was critical in forming the unity government.
Without Umno’s backing, it would have been challenging, if not impossible, to secure a parliamentary majority.
Indeed, without Umno’s move and the advice from the then Yang di-Pertuan Agong, GPS would not have participated in the unity government too.
Sarawakians were also pleased when GPS joined the new unity government in 2022. It would have been difficult for the majority of Sarawakians to accept the PAS/Bersatu combo.
Today, it is reliably learned that Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg and PM Anwar share a close working relationship, boding well for a stable and progressive administration.
Today, Sarawak enjoys political stability, allowing the GPS government to implement long-term strategies and reforms without disruption, particularly in sectors like education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
Even Anwar and federal leaders have showered praises on the Abang Johari administration for its sound and diligent leadership which, in turn, has brought Sarawak much success and prosperity.
At the federal level, Umno’s collaboration with reform-oriented parties in Pakatan Harapan has created a platform for policy reform while maintaining institutional continuity. This dual approach is critical for fostering political and economic stability.
I believe that today, most Malaysians will want to see Umno succeed for stability in the unity government. I am one of them.
Umno indeed faces internal divisions and a declining voter base. However, there are opportunities for the party to rebuild its credibility and relevance by demonstrating effective governance and addressing concerns across ethnic and economic lines.
As a Malay/Muslim-based party, Umno’s collaboration with other parties exemplifies a pragmatic approach to navigating the country’s evolving political landscape.
Umno has historically represented moderate political views, balancing between conservatism and pragmatism. A strong Umno can counter more extreme or divisive ideologies.
While Malaysia’s current political environment is characterized by fragmentation and competition among coalitions, Umno’s participation lends stability to the unity government, ensuring smoother governance.
More importantly, stability allows governments to implement long-term strategies and reforms without disruption. Frequent changes in leadership or political turmoil can hinder effective decision-making, delaying progress and eroding public trust.
I want to see a strong and stable Umno because I want to see the unity government serve out its full five-year term.
DISCLAIMER:
The views expressed here are those of the columnist and do not necessarily represent the views of New Sarawak Tribune.
