THE days of Umno winning by having any candidate stand in elections are over, said party Youth chief Khairy Jamaluddin.

He said what was needed now was for Umno to field a wide variety of candidates to ensure the party looked contemporary.

“This variety should include seniors, women and younger members. Let the party look contemporary to voters,” said the youth and sports minister during the Umno wrap-up speeches at the Putra World Trade Centre today.

Khairy warned that what was coming ahead was the most important general election, as it would determine the destiny of the Malay race and country.

“What is at stake is not merely who forms the government for the next five years. The 14th general election will determine the destiny of the race and country.”

He said the challenges of urbanisation and technological disruptions would only grow with time, and Umno’s election manifesto must address these concerns as they affected the youth and voters.

“There are several ingredients in becoming a party of the future.

“Firstly, we need to carry a fresh message that will appeal to young voters. The Barisan Nasional manifesto must offer a ‘new deal’ for the youth.”

He said the manifesto must include the creation of high-income jobs for the youth in the rural areas, or those who were not yet ready to enter the digital economy.

“It must try to provide adequate housing. Let this be an offer to young voters.” – December 9, 2017.