Cooperation with Pas remains target of political rivals, says Umno sec-gen

KUALA LUMPUR – Umno secretary-general Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki has declared that the party's cooperation with Pas remains a target of political rivals following key electoral victories.

Speaking on Friday at the 2026 Umno Youth Assembly held at the World Trade Centre (WTC) Kuala Lumpur, Asyraf said the bond between the two traditional Malay-Muslim parties continues to draw intense jealousy from opponents across the political divide.

Addressing delegates at the annual gathering, Asyraf pointed to past political momentum, highlighting how unified efforts yielded strategic triumphs in key states including Negeri Sembilan and Johor.

He said the renewed solidarity under the "Ummah Unity" banner proved the strength of the alliance when confronting common electoral challenges.

"The success in Negeri Sembilan and Johor demonstrates the strength of our cooperation.

"The unification of the Ummah with our long-standing partner, Pas, is now increasingly envied by our political adversaries," Asyraf said during his address.

Asyraf said Barisan Nasional's performance improved sharply across every community in both states. Chinese voter support rose from 9.5 per cent in 2022 to 20 per cent in the recent Johor state election, while in Negeri Sembilan it grew from 8.7 per cent to 14 per cent, a result he credited to MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong.

Indian voter support also climbed sharply, from 18.9 per cent to 54.8 per cent in Johor and from 17.6 per cent to 49.6 per cent in Negeri Sembilan, with BN securing the highest share of Indian votes among all parties in both states. Asyraf credited MIC president Tan Sri Dr Vigneswaran, the MIC and PPP leadership, and Friends of BN for the outcome.

Malay voter support rose from 45.8 per cent to 79 per cent in Negeri Sembilan and from 44.9 per cent to 82.4 per cent in Johor.

He also highlighted BN's sweep of Felda polling districts in both states, crediting former Felda chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Chik, who was not reappointed to the post, for restoring settlers' confidence in the party.

Despite the gains, Asyraf cautioned delegates against complacency, warning that the same momentum that lifted the party could also bring it down if members became arrogant or careless.

"This victory is not a licence for us to boast, but a heavy responsibility for us to serve with humility and sincerity," he said.

However, Asyraf cautioned that maintaining such political alliances has not come without significant challenges for the party and its leadership.

He said opponents have repeatedly attempted to destabilise the partnership through aggressive political tactics and hostile campaigns.

"A high price had to be paid as intimidation, slander and malicious accusations, all aimed at humiliating and tarnishing our image," he added, urging party members to remain resilient against external pressures and focus on party stability.