Datuk Seri Najib Razak led a pledge of loyalty at the end of his winding up speech at the Umno General Assembly 2012 at the Putra World Trade Centre here yesterday.

The pledge to protect the sanctity of Islam, struggle for the survival of the Malays and the future of the county, hold loyalty to Umno leaders, and enhance unity was echoed by 2,759 delegates.

At the outset of his speech, the prime minister was overcome with emotion when he recalled an appeal made by Umno Overseas Club representative Ariff Yasir Zulkafli for Umno members to bury the hatchet besides giving an insight into the future of the Malays if Umno and the Barisan Nasional (BN) were to lose power.

"I'm touched when the Overseas Umno Club representative pleaded to the people to give their support so that Umno can continue to be in power to enable it to continue the struggle in the interests of the race and aqidah," said Najib.

The prime minister said the plea reminded him of Umno's struggle for young people and the party promised to do the best for them.

At the end of his speech, Najib led a prayer for Umno to remain strong while the sanctity of Islam preserved.