KUALA LUMPUR – The appointments of the new menteris besar of Perak and Pahang under the PH-BN unity government is a mark for a new political landscape, said Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
In a statement via Facebook today, the Barisan Nasional chairman said PH-BN 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.
“Now is the time to work and ensure that all aspects of state development are given attention as the way forward.
“The impact of the challenging world economic environment needs to be dealt with better at the national level so as not to have a cascading impact on the state and the country.
“The cooperation built by Perak and Pahang BN also reflects the reality of a multiracial society and celebrates diversity in accordance with the demography of the state, which is the basis for the formation of strategic cooperation,” he said.
The cooperation between opposing political blocs, he said, is a choice and approach that will pioneer the unity and harmony for the government of the day so that the focus on development can continue.
“This openness reflects that PH-BN is forging a new path to bring centric politics, moderation and maturity to the fore.”
All of these, Zahid stressed, are in line with the formation of the unity government, which was mooted by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
“Now it is shaped to be more like a mixed government after Perikatan Nasional opted not to join it. Despite that, the spirit of unity remains the thrust of today’s government”
The strategic cooperation with Pakatan Harapan, Zahid said, will not abandon Umno’s principles based on two points.
“Firstly, the rejection of any cooperation with PKR, DAP and Bersatu was for the 15th general election (GE) and not post-election.
“Secondly, the cooperation is based on the decree of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong that wanted a unity government to be formed.”
Calling for party unity post-GE, Zahid assures that the current political balance will not erode Umno’s image as a party that fights for the rights of Malays and Islam for the advancement of the race.
“In accordance with changing times, Umno needs 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 to do politics. Instead, Umno responsibly uses politics to preserve matters related to the interests of the Malay Muslims as enshrined in the federal constitution,” he added. – The Vibes, November 29, 2022
