FORMER Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin has yet to submit his application to rejoin UMNO, nearly three years after his expulsion from the party in January 2023.
UMNO Secretary-General Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki confirmed that while Khairy is eligible to apply for reinstatement, acceptance will be decided by the party’s Supreme Working Council (Majlis Kerja Tertinggi, MKT).
“Up to today, Khairy has not contacted me regarding this matter, nor have I received any information or application form from him. Any application must be submitted to me so that I can manage it and bring it to the party’s appeal committee, and subsequently to the MKT to finalise,” he told Berita Harian.
The MKT is scheduled to meet on 8 November. UMNO has previously signalled it is open to accepting expelled or suspended members back in a bid to strengthen the party, though its constitution dictates that the MKT has the final say on such matters.
Khairy, who is now a radio presenter on Hot FM, is reportedly expected to return to UMNO ahead of the Sabah state election later this month. Sources said he has received approval from top party leadership, particularly UMNO President Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
The endorsement was conveyed by the Deputy Prime Minister at a wedding in Perlis, with Ahmad Zahid personally urging Khairy to submit his membership form.
Asyraf Wajdi described the move as an opportunity to inject fresh momentum into UMNO, which is working to regain support among Malays, especially younger voters.
Khairy was expelled from UMNO in January 2023 after openly criticising the party leadership during the 15th General Election campaign. Despite his defeat in the Sungai Buloh parliamentary seat, a stronghold of Pakatan Harapan, Khairy managed to secure a significant share of the vote and disrupted the opposition’s dominance.
“Everyone makes mistakes, and there is no reason for UMNO to bar anyone from returning once they acknowledge past errors and apologise,” Asyraf Wajdi said.
“Former members who have seen the benefits of UMNO and its coalition in developing the country and serving the people are welcome back. We encourage everyone to contribute to rebuilding the party’s strength for the nation, religion and community.”
He added, “Now is the time for all UMNO members to unite, be generous in spirit, and give their best to strengthen the party once more.” - November 1, 2025
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