UMNO president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has called on party members to put aside past grievances and internal divisions as the party sets its sights on its next phase of growth.
Speaking at Umno’s 80th anniversary convention at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur, Zahid said the party’s eight-decade journey had been defined not only by achievements, but by its resilience in overcoming repeated crises.
Zahid said Umno had faced cycles of challenges every decade – from leadership disputes and internal splits to a loss of public trust – yet had continued to endure.
“Every time Umno is tested, that is where the true strength of this struggle is revealed… from every cycle of crisis, new momentum and renewed hope have emerged,” he said.
Looking ahead, Zahid said the party must now move beyond merely navigating crises and instead focus on building a sustainable future, as it approaches its 100-year milestone.
He said this future could not be anchored in past conflicts, describing the party’s Rumah Bangsa vision as one that must unite rather than divide.
“This is not a house to reopen old wounds or hold on to past grievances,” he said, adding that the initiative was meant to bring together those who had once been part of the party.
Zahid said Umno must open its doors widely and sincerely to rebuild collective strength, warning against allowing past disputes to hinder efforts at consolidation.
He added that the party’s long-term goal was not confined to winning elections, but to shaping a future generation capable of sustaining its role in nation-building.
“This is not just about winning elections… but about nurturing the next generation,” he said.
Zahid also outlined broader priorities for the party moving forward, including strengthening political stability, fostering unity among Malays, and adapting to a more complex and dynamic political landscape through collaboration.
As Umno marks 80 years since its founding, Zahid said the challenge now was to ensure the party remains relevant and resilient in the decades ahead.
