DON’T count your chicks before they are hatched.
This is the sentiments expressed by several Umno delegates when met during the PAU recently.
A number of them feel the Umno leadership has become ‘overly confident’ and once again demonstrating the same arrogance and ego which caused them to lose power in the first place.
“Just because we did well in two state elections, does not mean we are ready to take on the next general election.
“Voters are like the wind and can change directions at any time,” said a delegate from Negeri Sembilan.
He said state election results should not be a yardstick to gauge overall national sentiments.
Another delegate said they were very cautious of Umno’s relationship with PAS.
“Working with PAS is dangerous. What happens if Umno goes into the next GE with PAS and the Islamic party wins the majority seats.
“Surely, PAS would want to appoint a Prime Minister from their party. They are already picturing the Terengganu MB as their poster boy.
“Do you really think foreign nations would want to invest in a country which could at any time implement Shariah laws,” asked the delegate.
Another delegate who spoke to The Vibes said while Umno delegates were excited about the ‘blue wave’, many were also very reserved about the PAS partnership.
“For many of us, PAS is like a wolf in sheep clothing and can backstab us any time.
“It is obvious that they command the most support for now and will use this against us when the time comes.
“Also, seat distribution is going to be a major issue as they (PAS) are certainly not going to give up any seats in the states they control now.
“This would give Umno a major disadvantage going into the election,” he said.
A woman delegate also agreed that the premiership is what PAS is aiming for and if they take the helm, the country will deteriorate in terms of FDI.
“For my branch, we certainly do not trust PAS and its promises.
“It is almost certain they are going to impose Shariah laws if they take power and this is going to drive away all investors,” she said.
She pointed out that neighbouring nations like Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos were drawing in investors because of their relaxed policies and ease of doing business.
“What about tourism? Are foreigners who want to enjoy our beaches and hot sun going to come here anymore if the nation is governed by Shariah laws,” she asked.
Other delegates also urged the party leadership not to become power hungry and end up being ‘bag carriers’ for PAS.
“Be careful and don’t become greedy. Apart from PAS, there are also political parties in Sabah and Sarawak which are very strong and can easily sway the results.
“If things backfire, Umno could well end up being out of the government altogether,” they said. – September 12, 2026
