GIVE the unity government a chance to prove its worth to fellow Malaysians, Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said today.

He said although there were grouses about the current administration not being a “game changer” by fulfilling pledges, he was still optimistic it could be achieved.

The deputy prime minister said the government had only been in power for seven months.

“Give this government a chance to translate the agenda that has been promised and planned,” Zahid said in his policy speech at the Umno general assembly at the party headquarters in World Trade Centre today.

“I believe this can be implemented with the support of the civil servants, who adhere to the principle of being loyal to the current government. 

“Although we know some may be inclined to past leaderships, we, the government, are confident that they (civil servants) will support the current administration for the wellbeing of the people and the country,” he added. 

Zahid, who is also the Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman, said the political cooperation in the current unity government was slightly more complex than before but was of the view this plurality will only strengthen them. 

“With the participation of 19 political parties, larger than the 1974 political cooperation, the plan is of course more complicated.

“However, the diversity that exists should be seen as a strength when we stand on points of commonality,” Zahid said. 

Zahid said despite BN’s cooperation with Pakatan Harapan, Umno has always defended the nation’s foundations so that the position of Islam and the Bumiputera, as well as article 153 of the Federal Constitution, is upheld and never disputed.

Article 153 of the Federal Constitution covers the special rights of the Malays and the Bumiputera in the country. 

Zahid also said despite being continuously labelled as a racist party, Umno has proven to be moderate and pragmatic.

“Since Umno fought for the nation’s independence, it has always held on to its moderate approach,” he added. – June 9, 2023.