UMNO President Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has underscored that criticism and differing viewpoints are a natural part of political life and must be accepted openly, including by leaders of the party’s Youth wing.
Speaking to reporters after attending the 2026 New Year Address to NADMA personnel in Puchong, Selangor, Zahid stressed that leaders cannot selectively welcome criticism when it is convenient, while rejecting it when directed at themselves.
“Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, I myself have served as Chief of UMNO Youth Malaysia. This is the youth – they will naturally have differing ideals. But when faced with divergent views or comments, we must accept them as part of what is called a difference of opinion,” he said.
He clarified that his remarks were not aimed at any individual in particular but reflected a general principle of party politics.
“If we often criticise others, then when people criticise us, we must accept it. We should not label dissenting voices as undemocratic or unwilling to face reality,” he added.
Ahmad Zahid also reminded that politics is not a shortcut and that not everyone will agree with one’s perspective. “If you disagree, state it with explanation, not through other actions. This is political struggle,” he said, urging Youth leaders to maintain their ideals even if their proposals are initially unaccepted, provided they are pursued through proper channels.
Reflecting on his own experience, the UMNO President acknowledged that failures and mistakes are an integral part of learning in politics. “I have also ‘clashed with mountains,’ slipped on banana peels and fallen. But a fall does not mean we cannot rise again,” he noted.
The comments come in the wake of reports regarding UMNO Youth Chief Datuk Dr Akmal Saleh, who hinted at the possibility of resigning, suggesting he may have reached a point where it is necessary to step aside.
In a Facebook post, Akmal acknowledged that he had done his best to convey his message, indicating that any shortcomings might lie with himself, while noting that it could be time for him to step down. - January 8, 2025
