[UPDATED] Umno Youth’s call for DAP apology no obstacle to state polls prep: Akmal

KUALA LUMPUR – Cooperation between Umno Youth and its counterparts in the unity government for the upcoming state elections has not been affected by the former’s demands for an apology from DAP.

Umno Youth chief Muhammad Akmal Saleh said that while the party’s Youth wing stands by its call for Pakatan Harapan component member DAP to apologise for past insults towards Umno, efforts with other unity government youth wings continue unhindered.

Speaking during a press conference at the Umno general assembly here today, Akmal also stressed that the request for an apology from DAP is based on feedback obtained from grassroot members of the Barisan Nasional linchpin.

“Just because Umno Youth insists on highlighting the voices of party grassroots members, this doesn’t mean we have a bad relationship with other (unity government) youth parties,” he explained.

“In fact, I recently texted (PH Youth chief) Dr Kelvin Yii, and we’ll be meeting in a few days to discuss PH and Umno’s strategy for the state polls.” 

Akmal, who is also Merlimau state assemblyman, said that an apology from DAP to Umno would be the “fastest way” to secure support from Umno voters.

He added that Umno Youth is disinclined to “hide the real issue” of grassroot sentiments, as addressing matters deemed critical by party members is necessary to ensure that voters are willing to put their trust in party leaders.

“Prior to this, some parties might have only spoken about topics that are nice to listen to, but Umno Youth must address real issues,” he said. 

“We are just being the grassroots’ voice, (as) many of them are questioning Umno working together with a party that has criticised it all this while.

“Asking DAP to apologise to Umno (for previous condemnations) does not mean that we (Umno Youth) haven’t moved on,” he said. 

Akmal’s comment referenced DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke’s suggestion that it would be best for the party wing to set aside their differences since both Umno and DAP are now part of the unity government. 

Besides that, Akmal also said that if DAP were to ask Umno to issue a similar apology in return for its expression of regret, the former would need a “solid reason” to back such demands. 

“Umno has a strong reason for asking DAP to apologise, (as the latter) had issued an apology to Sarawak’s people and state government for any offensive statements the party had made. 

“If they (DAP) want us to apologise as well, they’ll need a solid reason,” he said. 

Meanwhile, Akmal also said that Umno welcomes those who care for the party to aid in amplifying the party’s principles, reiterating that that there is nothing wrong with welcoming former members to rejoin the party due to their past contributions. 

Akmal, who did not elaborate on the form of “help” that could be provided, mentioned that there is “still hope” for suspended former Umno Supreme Council member Datuk Seri Tajuddin Abdul Rahman and sacked Khairy Jamaluddin to rejoin the party. 

Citing Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad’s brief departure from the party before being its longest-running president, Akmal said leaving Umno does not necessarily indicate that a member no longer cares for the party. – The Vibes, June 10, 2023