Selection of Umno leaders must respect Article 3 of Umno constitution - Rais

The former Information, Communication and Culture Minister said this meant that Umno must be recognised as a continuation for the religion, race and country but the mechanism must reflect Malay unity.

"Nevertheless, Umno will have leaders but if we are divided in determining who will lead, the power of the Malays will dwindle and cease to exist due to political pressure.

"Party president Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak has advised us to be united. The Malays must hold on to this old tip like the pantun 'Baju Melayu Berbutang Lima, Ada Juga Berbutang Suasa, Orang Melayu Jangan Lupa, Hilang Kuasa Hilang Semua'," he said, adding that he would not be defending his post in the Supreme Council and as Jelebu Umno Division Chief this time.

He was speaking to reporters when met at Pertang assemblyman Datuk Jalaludin Alias' open house in Simpang Pertang, here last night.

Article 3 in the Umno Constitution states the party's responsibilities and objectives as a political party which upholds the Malays' national ambition to defend religion, race and country.

Rais, who is also Advisor To The Government On Social and Cultural Affairs, said the power was also seen by the others who were happy to see Umno divided.

Therefore, he advised leaders not to be too excited or abrasive on their way to the top, as it could give the wrong image to the party.

"As a veteran, I hope the leadership will work to find a formula to unite the Malays in PAS and Umno. This is the only formula and if we cannot do it I fear we won't be in power for long," he added.