KUALA LUMPUR: More opposition Members of Parliament (MPs) are expected to declare their support for Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, according to Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
The Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman described the recent actions of several opposition MPs declaring their support for the prime minister as a highly positive development.
"We believe that not only these four individuals, but perhaps more will follow suit.
"...we should view this support positively," he told reporters after the signing ceremony of the memorandum of understanding on the Malaysia-China Youth TVET Training Programme in Parliament here today.
The deputy prime minister said this in response to the move by four Bersatu MPs, namely Datuk Iskandar Dzulkarnain Abdul Khalid (Kuala Kangsar), Datuk Dr Suhaili Abdul Rahman (Labuan), Mohd Azizi Abu Naim (Gua Musang) and Zahari Kechik (Jeli), who declared their support for Anwar.
Elaborating, the UMNO president said the government must be ready to face a new political reality following this latest development.
He also advised the four UMNO divisions that have received support from Bersatu MPs not to be complacent but instead, work on strengthening their influence at the grassroots level to win back voter support.
Ahmad Zahid also said that most of the MPs expressing support were former UMNO members, and discussions would be held with leaders at the division level on whether they can return to the party or not.
"Even though they are assisting and supporting the prime minister, UMNO as a political entity must strengthen its influence at the grassroots level to regain voter and public support for anyone nominated to represent UMNO and BN in the respective areas in the future," he said.
-- BERNAMA
Bernama
Thu Nov 09 2023
DPM Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi described the recent actions of several opposition MPs declaring their support for the prime minister as a highly positive development. - BERNAMA
In China, a designer rethinks lingerie for women who have had breast cancer surgery
More than 350,000 women in China are diagnosed with breast cancer annually.
Why would the US government shut down?
Congress is supposed to allocate funding to 438 government agencies before October 1, the start of the fiscal year.
What is behind South Korea medical student quota dispute
Here are some details about South Korea's medical system and the dispute.
Vietnam considers relaxing two-child policy amid declining birth rate
Vietnam proposes allowing couples to decide the number and timing of their children, and addressing regional disparities in birth rates.
Malaysia’s first-ever saree-themed bowling tournament rolls in style
Beyond the competition, the event sparks a larger conversation about redefining the saree as more than just a traditional wear.
What is Elon Musk's DOGE? How much money has it saved US taxpayers?
Elon Musk does not draw a government salary and operates as a "special government employee, the White House says.
ANALYSIS - Brazil braces for more Chinese demand, higher food prices amid US trade war
China's long-term shift away from US imports strengthens Brazil's agricultural dominance.
Who could be the next Nissan CEO after Uchida?
If Makoto Uchida does exit, his replacement would become the fourth person to lead the carmaker in a little under six years.
Strongest ocean current will slow with melting Antartic ice sheets
The Antarctic Circumpolar Current could slow by around 20 per cent by 2050 in a high carbon emissions scenario, researchers reveal.
Anemia among biggest health issue facing children in M'sia - Expert
A balanced diet is essential for children to ensure they receive all the necessary nutrients for physical and mental development.
IBM Study: More companies turning to open-source AI tools to unlock ROI
Businesses have accelerated AI adoption in pursuit of faster returns and a competitive edge.
Wariness in Jerusalem as Palestinians mark first Friday in Ramadan
A limited number of older Palestinians were allowed into Jerusalem on the first Friday of the Muslim holy month.
Court orders 1MDB to pay costs of RM225,000 to Riza Shahriz and two others
1MDB withdraws its suit against Riza Shahriz for the alleged misappropriation of USD 248 million to finance movies and real estate.
Australia tells thousands to evacuate as tropical cyclone Alfred nears
Tropical Cyclone Alfred brought heavy rain, huge waves and strong winds, cutting off power, swamping beaches and shutting airports.
Trump: If NATO members don't pay, US won't defend them
US President Donald Trump cast doubt on his willingness to defend Washington's NATO allies.
Couple charged with murder, abuse of 5-year-old boy
The married couple was charged in separate courts with abusing and murdering a young boy in their care last week.
Nissan board to discuss potential CEO successors at March 11 meeting, sources say
The next CEO could be installed as a temporary or transitional leader.
Discovery of World War 2 bomb near major Paris train station disrupts services
The bomb was found 2.5 km (1.55 miles) from the train station, in the middle of the train tracks.
DNB, Meta collaborate on setting up innovation lab in Malaysia
DNB says its innovation lab will enhance real-time communication on Meta's platforms, using 5G to improve user experience.
South Korea offers to freeze medical student numbers to resolve 13-month dispute
Education minister Lee Ju-ho said, however, that the plan could only go ahead if all of the trainee doctors returned by the end of March.