A Pakatan Harapan youth wing leader has described as odd the call by Umno Youth chief Dr Akmal Saleh for Umno to exit the unity government while its leaders hold key positions.
Amanah Youth chief Hasbie Muda suggested that certain quarters are driving the push for Umno’s withdrawal.
He pointed out that Umno gains the most from staying in the government, with its MPs assigned strategic portfolios to empower the Malay-Muslim community.
Bizarre to relinquish roles
Hasbie told FMT it would be strange for Umno to abandon such important responsibilities.
He expressed confidence that Umno’s leadership would make a calm and rational decision.
Focus on people’s welfare
PKR Youth deputy chief Izuan Ahmad Kasim said the public would judge Umno Youth if it prioritised leaving the government and partnering with PAS.
He emphasised a commitment to protecting people’s welfare and the nation’s economy.
Izuan added that he believes Umno leaders prefer to remain in the government.
Call for self-reflection
DAP Youth chief Woo Kah Leong urged Umno Youth to reflect on its own actions rather than repeatedly portraying DAP as the villain whenever issues arise.
Woo noted that no DAP leader or member has attacked Umno’s leadership, including president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, since the unity government formed.
He advised Umno Youth to examine itself instead of blaming DAP and stirring public sentiment.
Background to Akmal’s statement
Earlier today, Akmal called for Umno to withdraw support from the unity government and move to the opposition.
He cited repeated breaches of “red lines” concerning Islam, the Malay community, and the monarchy.
Akmal made the remarks at a convention this evening discussing continued cooperation with Pakatan Harapan.
Triggering controversy
The convention followed Puchong MP Yeo Bee Yin’s refusal to apologise for a social media post.
Yeo had called the Kuala Lumpur High Court’s rejection of former prime minister Najib Razak’s house arrest bid a reason to celebrate.
Her comment angered senior Umno figures, including secretary-general Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki.
He suggested reviewing ties with parties that fail to value Umno’s contributions.
