UMNO president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has urged political leaders within the Unity Government to avoid conflating legal issues with political disagreements, stressing that both must be addressed through appropriate channels to preserve the coalition’s stability.
“If there is a breach of the law, legal action must be taken. But political action must follow political processes,” Zahid said in Pasir Salak on Sunday.
“We do not want political decisions to be forced by isolated events, especially if they could destabilise the unity of the 18-party MADANI government.”
His comments come in the wake of growing tensions between UMNO Youth Chief Muhamad Akmal Saleh and DAP, after Akmal led a protest in Kepala Batas, Penang. In response, DAP called on its youth wing to lodge police reports nationwide against him and pushed for a political distancing.
Zahid warned leaders against using controversial issues for personal popularity, urging them instead to maintain discipline and prioritise party cohesion.
“My advice to leaders is not to raise matters that could damage unity,” he said.
“Don’t do it just to gain attention or become the most popular, because in the end, it risks fracturing the relationships between parties.”
Zahid emphasised that UMNO’s leadership decisions must be respected to maintain good relations among leaders and grassroots members. He also highlighted the importance of reconciliation within the party as UMNO prepares for future elections.
Speaking at the same event, Zahid used the example of a past feud between former UMNO Supreme Council member Tajuddin Abdul Rahman and Pasir Salak UMNO Division Chief Khairul Azwan Harun.
“Let bygones be bygones. We must move forward. Look at my face—I’m also a son of Perak,” he said, urging the local leaders to reconcile.
Zahid added in jest that applause during the event would have been louder if a local request had come from Tajuddin rather than Khairul Azwan.
“But it’s alright,” he quipped. “I will ensure both leaders make peace to strengthen the parliamentary and state constituencies.”
He then confirmed his approval of Khairul Azwan’s request to relocate the GiatMARA training centre in Pasir Salak to a more suitable location in Ulu Dedap, offering programmes relevant to local demand, including agricultural machinery repair.
The long-standing rift between Tajuddin and Khairul Azwan dates back to alleged sabotage during the 15th General Election, which led to Tajuddin’s suspension from UMNO in 2022.
However, his suspension was lifted in December 2024 following a decision by the party’s Supreme Council.
Zahid’s broader message was clear: unity—both within UMNO and the larger government coalition—is essential for electoral success and national stability.
