GRASSROOTS leaders in Umno are unperturbed by the exodus of several of its lawmakers and leaders, but are more anxious about their supporters losing faith and the spirit to fight the government.

This is because the party’s strength lies in the power of its members, and not its leaders, said Umno Sabak Bernam information chief Ahmad Jais Zahdi.

“We’re not afraid that our members join other parties, but we’re concerned that the ones remaining lose political interest,” he told The Malaysian Insight.

“Many don’t care anymore, don’t bother. They feel it’s better to do some gardening or play with the grandchildren.”

Ahmad said he feared that this lackadaisical attitude was “spreading” as the party settles into the reality that it is now the opposition.

“In the future, when we organise programmes or road shows, if many are not interested, Umno will be affected in terms of its machinery and the party will appear weak,” he said.

Sabak Bernam MP Mohamad Faisah Mohd Fakeh is among the 17 Umno lawmakers who have so far left the party.

While the exodus of MPs have rattled some within the party’s leadership, Bagan Serai Umno chief Sham Mat Sahat said the support of grassroots leaders and members have so far remained strong, with few defections.

He said that initially, many among the grassroots were dismayed when Bagan Serai MP Noor Azmi Ghazali announced his defection to Bersatu.

“In the early stages, there were many disappointed voices of those wanting to quit politics, but once we explained and evaluated the government of the day, our spirit has returned,” he said.

Noor Azmi was also the first MP to announce his defection shortly after the May 9 general election last year.

Sham, who is also the state assemblyman for Alor Pongsu, said members who were disillusioned by the defections were encouraged to stay on and fight after finding that Pakatan Harapan was failing to protect the lower-income groups and those living in rural areas.

“Right now, it’s not just Umno members but the people without any parties who are dissatisfied with the performance of the government. Manifesto promises were not fulfilled, racial discord, worsening economy, ringgit not strengthening and falling price of palm oil.

“Even those not interested in politics are talking about politics now and are not satisfied with the government. So why would Umno people want to leave now?” – January 5, 2019.