UMNO saw a significant resurgence at the grassroots level, with a record 20,710 branches nationwide holding their annual meetings this year, said party secretary-general Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki.

This is an increase from 20,005 branches last year.

“This demonstrates that the party’s grassroots are not only active, but highly motivated,” he said during a visit to Balai Berita last Friday.

Present were Media Prima Television Networks News and Current Affairs group editor Azhari Muhidin, New Straits Times deputy group editor Sharanjit Singh, Berita Harian group editor Zulkifli Jalil and deputy group editor M. Thillinadan.

Asyraf said sentiment on the ground showed continued loyalty to Umno’s founding principles, even as the party navigated its role in the unity government alongside Pakatan Harapan.

“What truly matters is that our core struggle — the Islamic agenda and the position of the Malays and Bumiputera — must never be diluted. As long as the party can defend and advance its agenda through this cooperation, it is not only acceptable but also welcomed by our grassroots.”

When asked how this year’s meetings compared to previous ones, Asyraf noted a “distinct shift” in mood.

“This could be due to several factors. For one, the party has grown stronger. The performance of Umno ministers, as well as leaders helming government-linked companies and key agencies, has been commendable,” he added.

The increased enthusiasm, he added, also reflected growing confidence in the party’s direction, bolstered by its performance in recent by-elections.

Umno retained its seats in Pelangai and Mahkota and reclaimed ground in Ayer Kuning.