KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 5 — Any proposal to alter the position of UMNO and Barisan Nasional within the unity government must be channelled through proper party processes and consultation, rather than driven by individual opinions, Umno information chief Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said said today.
Azalina said major political decisions, including potential cooperation with PAS, should be deliberated through established platforms such as the party’s political bureau and general assembly.
She likened calls for Umno to leave the unity government to divorce and remarriage, which require careful consideration and consultation.
“In Islam, even divorce and remarriage involve an iddah period and discussions between families. You cannot make such decisions overnight,” she told reporters at a press conference in Putrajaya.
Azalina noted that Umno, founded in 1946, has endured numerous political challenges and transformations, and its leadership has developed mechanisms to navigate complex situations through consultation and collective decision-making.
She stressed that Umno has consistently practised deliberation and consensus, regardless of differing views among its members.
“Even if not all members appear outwardly religious, Umno continues to uphold Malay and Islamic values,” she said.
Her remarks came in response to a proposal by Umno Youth chief Muhamad Akmal Saleh, who recently called for the party to withdraw from the unity government and move into the opposition.
Dr Akmal had also urged Umno to swiftly form a political alliance with PAS, citing the need to protect religion and race.
Azalina questioned the credibility of a survey reportedly conducted by Dr Akmal to support the proposal, saying it was unclear whether the respondents represented Umno’s grassroots, elected representatives, or both.
“Without clarity on who was surveyed, such findings cannot be used as the basis for a major party decision,” she said, adding that personal opinions should not be mistaken for official party positions.