UMNO must have motivation for struggle as a ruling party - PM Najib

UMNO must be seen as a party which has a strong motivation to continue its struggle as a party which is leading the nation, said Prime Minister and UMNO president Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.

Outlining the interest and focus for the 2016 UMNO General Assembly, Najib said the people would judge the party from the angle of togetherness and unity and at the same time continue to be concerned with the welfare of the people specifically Malays, Islam and bumiputras.

"It means that we must show our unity, don't squabble, because the confidence of the people is in a united party. As such, our unity is important," he said at a question and answer session in conjunction with UMNO General Assembly 2016 last night.

"To look after a party, what we say as an UMNO division leader will be judged by the people as assurances by the party and we are seen as a party which is concerned about the issues of the people.

"So, when we discuss in the UMNO General Assembly 2016, it is not for us but what UMNO wants and can do for the people and nation. This includes what good we can offer. This is what I desire, a party fighting for the people and nation," he said.

Touching on the challenges facing UMNO to continue to be given the mandate to rule the nation, Najib said the party must enhance efforts to approach the people by using the proper platform.

He drew attention that to achieve the objective UMNO must be inclusive by not only giving attention to hardcore supporters only while ignoring the other groups.

"I see the pamphlets, the UMNO messages, we need a more suitable vehicle to explain to the people. Because too many social media are are giving misinformation, lying, sowing half-truths, the people are confused, duped.

"As such, we must intensify efforts by using numerous methods and channels so that good and positive stories come to the knowledge of the people," he said.

Najib, in the meantime, also expressed his dilemma when speaking at the UMNO General Assembly as party president or prime minister.

"The people must understand this UMNO General Assembly is not a budget speech, eve of independence speech and others. This is a speech as UMNO President. For this reason I have my audience, the UMNO members.

"So, Malays, Bumiputra must understand.

"I also must understand because I hold the post of Prime Minister. So, I cannot insult non-Malays and non-bumiputra. Our priority is the issues concerning UMNO, Islam and the bumiputra agenda.

"This does not mean we don't care at all about the rights and interests of others. This is UMNO General Assembly," he said.

The 2016 Umno General Assembly will begin tomorrow until Dec 3 at the Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC). -- Bernama