Akmal Questions DAP's View of Umno Amid Coalition Partnership

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 15 — Umno Youth chief Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh has raised concerns over whether the Democratic Action Party (DAP) will ever view...

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Akmal Questions DAP's View of Umno Amid Coalition Partnership
KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 15 — Umno Youth chief Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh has raised concerns over whether the Democratic Action Party (DAP) will ever view Umno positively, despite their collaboration in the ruling coalition. Speaking at the Umno Youth annual assembly at Dewan Merdeka, Dr Akmal noted that he has never heard DAP acknowledge Umno's efforts or improvements, even as the two parties work together in government. Dr Akmal expressed skepticism about DAP's potential for change, a view some Umno leaders hold. He emphasized, "I have never heard DAP say Umno has become good again. I have never heard DAP leaders say, 'Datuk Seri president, Umno has improved.' Never," referring to Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. He added that critics continued to censure Ahmad Zahid even after he received no further action in his Yayasan Akalbudi case. Framing his remarks within a broader context, Dr Akmal acknowledged that Umno is facing a crisis of public trust, stating, "Today, whether you believe it or not, whether you agree or not, Umno today is facing a crisis of public trust. This is a reality we cannot hide." He stressed that Umno Youth does not seek conflict with political rivals but will not remain silent if the party's principles and dignity are compromised. Dr Akmal cited recent controversies, including the use of the word "Allah" on socks, halal certification disputes, and the deliberate display of an upside-down flag. He questioned who backed the perpetrators in these incidents, highlighting tensions within the coalition. "On the issue of the word 'Allah' on socks, the party we challenged was KK Mart — but who was it that eagerly backed KK?" he asked, implying underlying support from certain quarters. He warned that he would "fight to the very end" to defend Umno's principles, even if faced with opposition or reports lodged against him. The Umno Youth annual assembly, running alongside the party's general assembly from yesterday to Saturday, gathers delegates from 191 divisions nationwide, underscoring the significance of these discussions within the party's broader strategy and public perception.

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