DR Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki, a former deputy minister in the Prime Minister’s Department, has been officially declared the new Umno Youth chief.

His rivals in the race were Senator Khairul Azwan Harun, Pahang Youth chief Shahar Abdullah, and Sungai Besar division chief and fugitive Jamal Md Yunos.

Asyraf’s deputy is Shahril Sufian Hamdan.

The Kuala Langat Umno Youth chief topped a crowded field of nine candidates.

He beat Bastien Onn, Zahrudin Yahya, Sharique Adam Das, Razali Tushan, Halim Sidek Hassan, Ridzuan Hashim Baki, Safhwan Matusin and Fariz Hadi for the post.

Meanwhile, the Wanita wing’s top post has been secured by Parit Sulong MP Noraini Ahmad, while Zahida Zarik Khan is the new Puteri chief.

Asyraf said he seeks to eradicate the “kelompok” (different camps) culture in the party, as every member must play his or her part to rebuild Umno following the Barisan Nasional coalition’s crushing defeat in the May 9 polls.

He said the higher rate of participation in the party polls this time is a positive sign, considering that many view Umno as no longer having anything to offer.

“Maybe, last time, many longed for power and status, but the reality is, the party no longer has that to offer.

“I think what’s important now is for everyone who contested to come together,” he told reporters at the Putra World Trade Centre tonight.

He added that he will try and bring those who lost the elections into his team, so that they can rebuild the party.

Earlier today, Senator Khairul Azwan Harun conceded defeat in the Youth race and pledged support for Asyraf.

He also offered his services to help rejuvenate the wing, saying he hopes Umno Youth will close ranks to ensure that the party becomes a credible opposition.

In total, Umno saw 612 nominations for various posts, including speakers for its wings.

The elections for the party’s top posts will be held on Saturday. – June 24, 2018.