THE United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) has positioned itself as a unifying force for Malay politics in Johor, following the recent disbandment of 11 divisions of Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu) in the state, attributed to ongoing internal party disputes.
UMNO Johor Bahru division chief Datuk Yahya Jaafar described the fragmentation within Bersatu as evidence that division weakens Malay political influence, undermining stability and the broader direction of Malay advocacy.
“UMNO has, since its inception, been the principal platform for Malay leadership and national policymaking, and it remains relevant today as a vehicle for unity,” Yahya said in a statement on Thursday.
“UMNO is not merely a political party, but a large home for the Malay community. In an increasingly challenging political landscape, unity is a necessity, not an option.”
On Wednesday, 11 Bersatu divisions in Johor announced their dissolution, including Mersing, Pontian, Johor Bahru, Labis, Simpang Renggam, Sembrong, Pengerang, Tanjung Piai, Ledang, Pulai, and Sri Gading. Datuk Isa Ab Hamid, Pontian division chief representing the affected divisions, explained that the decision followed a lack of clear response from party leadership to a media statement submitted on 27 January.
In response, Yahya emphasised that UMNO is welcoming Bersatu members affected by the dissolution to return to their original political home, aiming to strengthen Malay political representation collectively and effectively.
“This call aligns with the Rumah Bangsa initiative championed by UMNO President Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, which seeks to consolidate Malay strength under a stable leadership that commands public confidence,” Yahya added.
He urged all parties to set aside narrow differences, reject divisive politics, and support efforts to reinforce Johor’s stability for the well-being of its citizens and the future of the state. - February 19, 2026
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