Working with Pakatan in unity govt won’t sideline Umno’s principles, says Zahid

PETALING JAYA: The strategic cooperation with Pakatan Harapan will not sideline Umno’s principles, says Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi (pic).

The Umno president stressed that the cooperation was based on the decree made by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong that a unity government was formed.

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“Firstly, the rejection of any cooperation with PKR, DAP and Bersatu was for the 15th General Election (GE15) and not post-election.

“Secondly, the cooperation is based on the decree of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong that a unity government be formed,” he said in a Facebook post Tuesday (Nov 29).

He urged all party members to close ranks after GE15 and said efforts for political continuity will not erase the party’s identity, as it always championed the rights of Malays and Islam.

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In line with changing times, Ahmad Zahid said Umno needed to be aware of current changes and dynamics and must be seen as inclusive.

“Umno still defends the party’s policy to adopt a moderate, centric and progressive attitude in dealing with change.

“Umno also rejects political parties using religion for politics.

“Instead, Umno responsibly uses politics to preserve matters related to the interests of Malay Muslims as enshrined in the Federal Constitution,” he added.

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He also lauded the appointments of the new mentris besar of Perak and Pahang under the Pakatan and Barisan unity governments, a sign of a new political landscape.

The cooperation in forming the governments in Perak and Pahang is based on the principle of bringing stability to the state administrations and ensuring the well-being and welfare of the people, he noted.