Any proposal or call regarding Umno’s political direction, including suggestions for the party to withdraw from the unity government, must be formally deliberated and decided by the party’s Supreme Council, said Umno Supreme Council member Zambry Abd Kadir.
Speaking in Manjung on Sunday, Zambry stressed that Umno has clear organisational structures that govern how decisions are made, particularly on matters as significant as the party’s role within the unity government and its cooperation with Barisan Nasional (BN) partners.
He said views expressed by individual leaders or party wings should be respected, but they do not amount to official party policy unless they are brought before and endorsed by the Supreme Council.
“Any view, action or recommendation from Umno members or leaders must ultimately be referred to the Supreme Council so that decisions can be made carefully and collectively,” he said, as reported by Berita Harian.
Zambry, who is also BN secretary-general, was responding to recent remarks by Umno Youth chief Muhamad Akmal Saleh, who called on Umno to reconsider its participation in the unity government.
Akmal had urged the party to withdraw from the current administration, arguing that Umno should refocus efforts on Malay unity and work more closely with PAS to safeguard Islam and the interests of the Malay community.
While acknowledging Akmal’s right to express his views within Umno Youth, Zambry emphasised that party discipline and procedures must be upheld.
“That is his perspective as voiced within Umno Youth. He is fully aware that under Umno’s party structure, any move or recommendation must be channelled through the Supreme Council,” he said.
Zambry added that the council serves as the highest decision-making body in the party, ensuring that major strategic choices are not made hastily or in response to political pressure.
He noted that Umno and BN are currently part of a unity government formed to ensure political stability and effective governance, following a period of prolonged uncertainty.
According to Zambry, any reassessment of Umno’s position in the government must take into account national stability, the interests of party members, and the expectations of voters.
He also cautioned against turning internal debates into public disputes, warning that such moves could weaken party cohesion.
“Differences of opinion are normal in a democratic party, but they must be handled through the right channels and with maturity,” he said.
Zambry reiterated that Umno remains committed to collective leadership and structured decision-making, adding that any major shift in direction would only be announced after thorough discussion at the Supreme Council level.