KUALA LUMPUR – Brushing aside criticism of his supposed lack of involvement during a recent regional defence summit, Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan today said that having bilateral talks with other nations’ military leaderships is far better than giving speeches in such forums.
The Umno deputy president opined it was better to directly discuss with the respective national leaders on national matters, including Malaysia’s stance in the South China Sea dispute, at the 20th Shangri-la Dialogue held in Singapore from June 2 to 4.
“To me, bilateral talks with the defence ministers and military leaders of other nations are more effective than giving speeches,” he told reporters during the Umno general assembly at the World Trade Centre here today.
“(This is because) many national leaders were absent in the dialogue. Most who attended were members of the public.”
Mohamad added speaking with leaders face-to-face was more beneficial, as it allows direct and honest discourse between all parties.
He was responding to former health minister Khairy Jamaluddin’s remark in his Keluar Sekejap podcast, where the latter pointed out that Mohamad did not give an address during the session.
During the dialogue, Mohamad had said the South China Sea issue remains a concern for the nation, which will continue working with Asean member states to intensify negotiations with China to realise the code of conduct for the South China Sea.
Umno members can make their own judgements
Meanwhile, Mohamad also addressed the unfavourable comments made by former Umno members who were sacked.
He said while the party cannot stop them from voicing out their opinions, he hoped current members can form their own sound perspectives and stay united.
“Umno is an aged party. I expect and hope its members can form their own judgements,” he said.
“Sometimes, there are expressions in the form of psywars (psychological warfare) and lashing out. We do not want Umno members to be affected by what has been said,” he added.
Mohamad highlighted the necessity to move forward as a party, as it can no longer afford to be divided.
Should members wish to voice out their opinions, Mohamad reiterated they could do so via internal channels.
Yesterday, former Umno Supreme Council member Datuk Seri Tajuddin Abdul Rahman lambasted former party secretary-general Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan for negligence in his duties as an adviser to party president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. – The Vibes, June 10, 2023
