Umno must apologise to Malaysians — Ku Li

BUTTERWORTH: Umno presidential candidate Tan Sri Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah will advocate that Umno apologises to Malaysians for failing to fulfill its responsibilities resulting in a severe defeat in the 14th general election (GE14).

The Gua Musang Umno division chief said that the apology would be made if he was elected president of Umno.

He said he wanted to organise that Umno at all branches and divisions apologised to the people so that the party could approach the people again and invite them back to be with Umno.

“I wish to suggest that we apologise to the people of Malaysia for our mistakes because we did not fulfill our responsibilities and trust which angered the people. Our religion also encourages us to apologise... that is (also) our culture.

“I think they will forgive us, that’s what we have to do, apologise to all because we neglected the trust which was given to us,” he said at a Friendly Session With Tan Sri Tengku Razaleigh, here yesterday.

Meanwhile, at a press conference, commenting on some State Assemblymen and Umno members leaving the party and becoming Independent elected representatives or joining another party, Tengku Razaleigh said they were dispirited after the severe Barisan Nasional (BN) defeat in GE14.

“They all got demoralised... maybe waiting for a leader for direction, which way the party is going, now this party appears ‘leaderless’, so they want (a leader) to direct them.

“Perhaps those without a strong faith will not endure, whether there is persuasion from others I do not know, I think that is the basis, they have lost heart in the struggle, so we have to revive it so there will be more confidence in the future of the party, “he said.

Asked whether Umno should introduce a baiah (pledge of allegiance) like PAS to check its members from leaving the party, he said it was not necessary.

Commenting on whether BN was still relevant after a number of component parties announced leaving the coalition, Tengku Razaleigh said BN was still relevant despite moving with only one party based on the original idea to the establishment of the sacred party.