Barisan Nasional (BN) component parties should not feel suspicious of the Sept 16 'red shirts' rally, said Cheras UMNO division chief, Datuk Seri Syed Ali Alhabshee.

He said the rally was a manifestation of the Malays, particularly UMNO members, whose feelings toward certain quarters which had deliberately stirred racial sentiments in their effort to illegally bring down a democratic government.

"The rally was to remind the quarters in question that the Malays can unite if their dignity and future are belittled.

"The Malays have long been patient with the antics of non-Malays in this country, so the rally should be viewed positively," Syed Ali said in his latest post on umnobahagiancheras.blogspot.my.

Therefore, BN allies should not hastily and negatively assume that the rally was racial in nature, he said.

Instead, UMNO has always adhered to the principle of camaraderie in BN.

"There is no question of racism or fighting for the interest of Malays as UMNO's fundamental struggle is for the Malays, Islam and the country.

"As the backbone of BN, UMNO always respects the voice of fellow component parties," Syed Ali said.

He, however, expressed disappointment over MCA's attitude for being biased and prejudiced in their assessment of the Sept 16 rally.

"They were angry with UMNO leaders over the rally but were silent when thousands of ethnic Chinese joined the Bersih 4 rally.

"They only saw the Malays gathering out of anger and resentment, but they closed one eye when they saw their race insulting UMNO leaders," he said.

Syed Ali said BN components, especially MCA should have sought clarification about the Sept 16 rally through proper channels. He said any any discontent should go through the BN Supreme Council chaired by BN chairman, Datuk Seri Najib Razak.

In another related development, Syed Ali, who is also Federal Territories UMNO liaison secretary, stressed that the spirit among UMNO members should be strengthened especially at grassroots level in preparation for the upcoming 14th General Election (GE14).

He said any dispute or disagreement within party members should be avoided and prioritise the party's agenda.

"The top leaders must lead by example, not be arrogant and listen to the grassroots. UMNO is going to face stiff competition in GE14," he said.

Syed Ali reminded party members to be wary of the Opposition's game in creating chaos and provoking UMNO, just to see the party's strength.