UMNO needs rejuvenation to stay relevant - Rozali

The rejuvenation of UMNO is seen as important to ensure that both the party and Barisan Nasional which it helms remain strong in facing current challenges and continue to be trusted by the people just like in its heyday.

UMNO Veterans senior vice-chairman Datuk Mohamad Rozali Isohak said weaknesses resulting from the actions of unscrupulous quarters would somehow undermine the strength of the party.

"What more when a leader such as (former prime minister) Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, who was a pillar of strength in UMNO, leaves the party and critisises the country's leaders.

"Although not all agree with him, I feel it can affect the party when negative images are circulated widely on the social media," the 66-year-old UMNO veteran told Bernama at his residence here.

Hence, Mohamad Rozali said all UMNO leaders and members should reflect and evaluate what needed to be done from time to time or, in other words, UMNO has to be given a breath of fresh air.

"For this, I fully agree with UMNO Information chief Tan Sri Annuar Musa who suggested the need for a comprehensive reflection among members for a revival of the history and struggles of UMNO in the minds of the people," he said.

Mohamad Rozali, who is also Kelantan UMNO Veterans chairman, said the love for UMNO especially among the younger generation should always be 'refreshed' as this acted as a catalyst for the survival of the party.

"We do not want people to think that we are entitled to what we are enjoying today ... but (they) must understand that the UMNO of today was built on the blood and sweat of past leaders.

"The task to refresh and revive the glory days of UMNO must be jointly shouldered by all members with high spirit and determination ... this should not be seasonal. It should come from a sincere heart to see the party continue to stay relevant," he said.

Mohamad Rozali said such efforts were closely associated with the spirit of volunteerism among members to channel any information relentlessly.

"Personnally, I see the volunteerism culture thinning. I mean when someone does something, it must come from the heart and they should not expect rewards. This is not good for the party," he said.

The former Kelantan deputy menteri besar said it was the duty of all leaders and members to maintain the party's good reputation in line with its maturity as the party will celebrate its 70th anniversary on May 11.

He said he believed that UMNO was still the most dominant party and would be able to stay relevant if there was strong solidarity and commitment in addressing the crisis of confidence currently faced.