Solidarity of Umno, solidarity of Malaysia – Najib Razak

1. This morning, it is for the sixth time that I am standing before you delegates and guests as the president. I refer also to all the Malaysians who are watching this live on television and listening over the radio.

2. Including also a majority of the Y generation following this Umno General Assembly.

3. What more the comrades; the leaders on stage; the delegates sitting and standing below and those up there; local student leaders; overseas Umno delegates; not forgetting the youngsters and elders watching the huge screen outside this hall.

Comrades,

4. Umno was established on May 11 some 68 years ago. It was a major effort on the agenda of uniting the Malays.

5. Evidently, after the party was formed, it was enshrined in the history books that it was Umno which had successfully quashed the plan to form the Malayan Union.

6. The struggles and sacrifices of the Malays in facing all those challenges were accomplished by none other than adhering to the principle and spirit called solidarity.

7. Indeed, it is evident that the spirit of the struggle of the United Malays National Organisation or Umno will continue to be vibrant, to soar and to remain ignited.

Let's hail together, thrice: Long Live Umno!! Long Live Umno!! Long Live Umno!!

Comrades,

8. Last August 31, we celebrated the 57th anniversary of our country.

Subsequently, on September 16, during the Malaysia Day celebration in the Land of Hornbills, discussions with the leaders in Sabah and Sarawak resulted in the outcome that we will only observe one official date of independence.

9. This is because September 16 was not chosen with any intention. It came about due to a delay in the verification of the referendum conducted by the United Nations.

10. Perhaps many are wondering why we want only one date for Malaysia's independence. The answer is, solidarity.

11. More importantly, it was the desire of the late Tunku Abdul Rahman that we

should all celebrate it on August 31. But, not to worry, the September 16 public holiday will remain and we will celebrate then as well.

Comrades,

12. The fact is we are all living in a country that is peaceful and harmonious, under a vast sky that bathes the land with rainfall throughout the year. As for the backbone, we have among others the Titiwangsa Range, the Crocker Range and Tama Abu, and the tropical rain forest covers the land.

13. We are also close to the equator that divides the earth into hemispheres and, as such, are always under a protective cloud cover.

14. In fact, we have sunshine all year round. Let's be thankful for these blessings. All of these are the gifts of the Creator.

15. Geographically, the peninsula, Sabah and Sarawak, separated by the South China Sea, make up an area of 330,290 sq km.

16. This is a legacy of our ancestors, populated by more than 28 million people and comprising of dozens of ethnic groups and communities.

17. By 2020, the overall number of Malays and Bumiputeras, Muslim and non-Muslim, will reach more than 70%.

18. If only all of us are united under the umbrella of Umno and Barisan Nasional, imagine, comrades, how strong we would be, how resilient we would be, not just to win the 14th general election, but to proudly elevate the country to a developed nation or high-income advanced economy in a bond of indestructible solidarity.

Comrades,

19. Evidently, this beautiful motherland was built over almost six decades. All that we see has not come about easily and naturally. Actually, Malaysia's journey has been one full of episodes and events.

20. As the saying goes, when we presume everything to be going smoothly, something crops up. The bitter Lahad Datu incident was a black mark in the nation's history.

21. Fortunately, some good was born out of that incident. The unsolicited painful event has strengthened the brotherhood and bonding among Malaysians.

22. Many soldiers from the peninsula also perished in the battlefield, along with their comrades and security personnel from the Land Below the Wind, in their attempt to defend the country and prevent even an inch of Sabah territory from falling into the hands of someone else.

This is the symbol of solidarity.

Comrades,

23. This is the story of how the country is pursuing prosperity. It started with scorn and distrust by many quarters as well as sarcasm, that we are unlikely to achieve our objective of being a nation state.

24. But now, people are beginning to wonder what magic formula Malaysia possesses for its welbeing. The answer, once again, is solidarity.

Comrades,

25. This year (2014) has been a most testing one for us. We were shocked by the unexpected tragedy of the mysterious disappearance of flight MH370 and the tragic event of flight MH17 that crashed in eastern Ukraine.

26. During those anxious moments, my comrades, even the major powers were unable to lend a hand. In an unprecedented move, I had to negotiate with the insurgents unidentified by country, so much so that we were able to take possession of the black box and, eventually, enter the crash site.

27. With the blessings of God, we were also able to bring out almost all the remains of the victims and have them sent to their homelands.

28. Obviously, comrades, Malaysians as a whole showed an incredible spirit of consensus, especially on the Day of Mourning.

29. It is for this reason that we want and we desire the spirit of oneness to keep burning forever. This is the symbol of unity called solidarity.

36. In this connection, we have never said that Umno leaders have exceptional qualities, more so that they are able to perform miracles like the prophets.

Unlike some people who are prepared to praise their husbands as “God's gift”.

37. However, we feel grateful for the blessings bestowed by God on Umno leaders and the party. In the context of building the Malaysian nation state, we have been taking lessons unconsciously from the two major events of the prophets, Prophet Ibrahim and Prophet Muhammad.

38. For example, close scrutiny will show that our past leaders, with their wise and prudent approach, embarked on a new chapter for this country that can be likened to spreading a white cloth to be adorned with patterns and colours.

39. The first move made by the government leadership helmed by Umno was to forge peace and stability by way of an understanding called the social contract.

40. It involved sacrifices by all those who agreed with it, especially the Malays and Bumiputeras. The social contract became a vehicle for establishing unity among the people in a young and new country.

41. Evidently, the solidarity that was forged became the basis for Malaysia's progress up to now and, God willing, forever.

42. The second measure adopted by past Umno leaders up to now adhered to the Islamic way of doing things, focusing on various economic programmes. When I took over the helm of administration in 2010, we introduced the National Transformation Policy.

43. By the middle of next year, we will implement the 11th Malaysia Plan, which will jumpstart the country towards becoming a high-income developed nation.

44. All of these are major guidelines and important directions to strengthen the resilience of the economy, prosperity of the country and welfare of the people that has been nurtured for decades.

45. Furthermore, a tireless measure implemented by the government helmed by this party is to ensure the continuity of the solidarity of the people because that's the most important asset that we must maintain for the survival of Umno, for the survival of the Barisan Nasional and for the survival of our beloved Malaysia.

46. Looking at what I have mentioned, consciously or otherwise, in a period of just under 60 years, this blessed country has gone through various stages of progress and intensive development.

47. Next, when tabling Budget 2015, I decided that the philosophy must place emphasis on the balance between the Capital Economy and the People's Economy.

48. This is because, from the theoretical or scientific standpoint, both exist in symbiosis to establish the economic needs of the people (Ekonomi Keperluan Rakyat) or EKR, but not PKR.

49. The budget focuses on seven strategies for the people's welfare and daily needs, particularly in relation to the cost of living.

50. It looks like what has been designed, engineered and implemented by the Umno-led government along with its component partners over the last 57 years was the right thing and had placed Malaysia on a strong alignment and the right track. 

51. This is work done with a great sense of moral responsibility by Umno and Barisan Nasional in the interests of the people and the country.

52. Malaysia is now seen and held as a modern, progressive and dynamic Islamic state.

53. It is with reference to these matters that, over the past few years, I mentioned that our country should base itself on the Maqasid Syariah framework that has the social justice philosophy as the axis.

54. As outlined by Imam Al-Ghazali and Imam Ash-Shatibi, Maqasid Syariah is the principle that has five principal matters as the core and guidance for all pillars of administrating a country.

55. This means, any administrative, political and economic matter should be guided by, referred to, complemented with and interlinked with the objectives of Shariah. Only then will there be the practice of Islam as a way of life, in accordance with the Quran and Sunnah.

56. If I can summarise, the formula that Umno has practised all this while is multi-pronged.

57. First, 'wasatiyyah' or moderation. Moderation here does not mean mediocrity. Instead, it demands refined and determined work of high quality, not just run of the mill. As for the way of life, it must be highly ethical.

58. Second, Umno should continue to be a party that emphasises a balanced approach. This should be the middle path, not the extreme, and it must deliver the right to the entitled.

59. For example, under the fiscal consolidation measures, the government subsidies are switching from the bulk to the targeted, which means we give assistance and the right to the entitled, such as the 1Malaysia People's Aid for those really in need.

60. Third, Umno has to be an eminent party that emphasises excellence, meaning Umno leaders and members should maintain a line of excellence ahead of the success curve. The intellectuals cite that one must strive for the benefit of the world, as though wanting to live a thousand years, and worship as though death awaits one the following day.

61. For Umno, one must strike a balance with life on earth and the hereafter. Thus, we must have Umno leaders and members par excellence. But, one must not be like the Pak Maun character in the P. Ramlee film “Do Re Mi”.

62. Once again, I repeat that we want Umno leaders and members par excellence in all fields.

63. In this connection, according to findings and current information, now, more and more people out there are fence-sitters.

64. They are looking out, observing and deciding on which party or group to pproach and lend their support.

65. In one corner, there are groups that are too extreme in their religious beliefs, so much so that they have misinterpreted the term “jihad”.

66. They have gone to the extent of getting involved in militant activities and see justification in suicide bombing. Actually, this act is strongly prohibited by religion.

67. On the other hand, there are groups that are too liberal in their religious beliefs, so much so that they get involved in hedonism and deviant activities.

68. What is more important is that Umno is very strong and on track, and has made Islam a guide, unlike others that have made Islam as their party.

69. In accordance with surah At-Taubah, verse 122, Umno must continue to champion the true Islam, which is universal and global, which is not extremist; understand laws correctly; be moderate in appreciation, yet excellent in employment; promote reasoning and struggle with devotion, as do the Umno and Barisan Nasional leadership, for the sake of the people's welfare and national development.

70. Only then will the people endear themselves to Umno and be with us. Consequently, Malaysia as a modern, progressive and dynamic Islamic nation will always be well regarded by friend and foe around the world.

71. Since early just now, I touched on the importance of solidarity in my speech on being the foundation or footing of our beloved Malaysia.

72. Clearly, after almost six decades, supported by this pillar, the principle of moderation and systematic and potent policies, we have achieved miraculous accomplishments and records which we can be proud of.

73. Among the 11 major achievements which I can list are:

First: If in the past when we achieved independence, the poverty rate of the Malaysian household was at more than 60%.

Thank God, thanks to the Umno's leadership, together with our colleagues in the component parties, I am pleaded to announce the poverty rate has shrunk to 1%, in fact, hardcore poverty has been almost eradicated.

Second: the latest, despite the uncertain world economy, Malaysia has achieved positive growth in all sectors and recorded a hike in GDP of 6.1%.

I wish to reiterate, this achievement, has placed us as the highest among nations in Asean.

Third: the entry of foreign investments totalling RM38.7 billion in 2013, was the highest actual realised investment in the history of the country.

Fourth: the Bursa Malaysia index touched 1,892 points which is the highest level in the history of the country, in July 2014.

Fifth: Malaysia continued to retain its position as the biggest sukuk market in the world. Sixth: According to a report by the International Finance Corporation, World Bank Group in its “Doing Business 2015 Report”, Malaysia came in at 18th spot out of 189 nations in the world.

And according to the 2013 CNN Travel Report, Kuala Lumpur was in fourth place as the most popular city to shop after New York, Tokyo and London.

Seventh: in a regional context, we should be proud because Malaysia was given the trust and honour to facilitate the reconciliation of the government of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front or MILF, ending a bloody dispute that lasted decades in the country.

Eighth: In 2015, Malaysia will officially chair Asean. This is an honour to the leadership of Umno and Barisan Nasional.

Ninth: we continue to be looked up to by our fellow Muslim brothers in Gaza because it is the Umno leadership which is consistent in helping and fighting for the lot of the people of Palestine who are oppressed by the Zionist regime.

Tenth: the name of Malaysia is becoming more popular in the international arena and Malaysia has succeeded in obtaining 187 votes to occupy a Non-Permanent Seat of the UN Security Council, and;

Eleventh: in all humility, I have received the Global Islamic Leadership Award at the 2014 World Islamic Economic Forum in Dubai.

Indeed, this recognition of the Islamic world, I dedicate to Umno and all Malaysians.

74. That my comrades, is a little of the success stories that can be presented. Actually, the success stories we have forged during the 57 years are more than that and are too numerous to count.

75. We cannot ever feel complacent and sit cross-legged no matter how much success we have reaped, or a mountain of records we are capable of creating and regardless of how much accolades we have received.

76. This is because, the enemies, both internal and external, will continue to lurk and spy on us, trying to break through whatever gaps and space to topple our struggle, to make our spirit fragile, then incite strife so that we crack and split.

77. Touching on the current reality, pious scholars have reminded us, it is the nature of people and organisations to be weak and always err.

78. But it is okay, each time we gather, and this is the 65th Umno general assembly, we will continue to be introspective, reminding one another, and make reforms after reforms because admittedly no one among us is perfect.

79. Even so, our struggle in Umno, in order to defend the lot of the Malays and Bumiputeras, it is mandatory (for us) to carry on (the struggle).

80. For that reason, it must be noted that, the party is not guilty, Umno is innocent. In contrast, the innocent and the guilty often are ourselves.

81. Clearly, our negligence in fortifying and defending Umno properly has caused the political realities, particularly over the last 15 years, to be so changed.

82. From what we have witnessed, there is truth when intellectuals say “for evil to triumph, good men do nothing”. In fact, according to scholars, the words were adopted from the hadith (teachings of prophets), among which were by Abu Daud.

83. It means, although we are in the right, but only sit quietly and not do anything, the enemies will have a field day which will only escalate in ferocity.

84. It is saddening that many Malays and Bumiputeras in particular and Malaysian society in general have misinterpreted the sincere and noble struggle of Umno.

85. More importantly, I wish to stress that the people of Umno need not be apologetic, Umno leaders and members need not feel embarrassed if many quarters try to ridicule that the party is outdated and no longer relevant.

86. The reality is, we must never forget that it is at historic gatherings like this that strategic ministries in the interest of the Malays and Bumiputeras are proposed, it is at these gatherings that Malay and Bumiputera institutions such as UiTM are empowered.

87. Similarly, the welfare the 1.5 million civil servants is looked after, it is here the Malay rulers continue to be honoured, this is where the greatness of Islam remains strengthened and heightened, and most importantly, it is at this gathering the Malays seek shelter, pour out their hearts for the future of their children and grandchildren.

88. So, if we want to ask, all the glory which we have achieved, all the achievements which we have accomplished, were the fruit of whose struggle? The answer, surely, the deeds of this auspicious party.

89. From that, enough already with the bad attitudes which has damaged our race from the past until now. We must leave the tales of Hang Nadim, Singapore overran by sword fish and enemies within.

90. Even though, there are those with hidden intentions, destroying the party from within and blunt at the end but stabbing sharply.

91. As such, we, as members of Umno, must migrate towards something better, as

an antidote to the wounds of the nation.

92. We must be a platform for the future struggle and become a party benefiting

our grandchildren and descendents, not just for the next 50 years or another century, but for longer than that.

The future generation of Umno

93. Going from there, at every Umno General Assembly, everyone wants to talk

about rejuvenating the party.

94. Speaking of this, day by day we hear our youths lament on their desire to join the Umno struggle.

95. Unfortunately, day by day we are also informed of this desire of our youths being hindered or rejeted by those who have been longer in the party.

96. As for this matter, as I mentioned in the presidential briefing two days ago, we must understand the reality that Umno comprises three generations.

97. The first generation comprises those 50 years of age and above. The second generation, between 30 and 50 years and the third generation, those 30 years old and below.

98. It is important that for the future of the party, all three generations must cooperate. Of more importance is that the third generation must see expansion, strengthening and empowerment.

99. So, as party president, and as expressed by the deputy president, Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, two nights ago, and also backed by the Umno top leadership, we state firmly and with full commitment that:

... starting from this assembly, we will be more committed to opening Umno's doors as wide as possible to young Malays and bumiputeras. Beloved youths, whether in the hall or outside,

100. As I mentioned in the presidential briefing two days ago, officially it is announced that we will open direct registration of Umno membership via online under the Umno headquarters for youths as young as 18.

101. Talking of youths, I am reminded of a quote of Saidina Umar al-Khattab when talking of the young generation.

102. The youth who was referred to by Saidina Umar was Abu Ubaidah. In fact, Prophet Muhammad himself conferred him the title Al-Amin.

All youths,

103. These are the inheritors of the Umno generation that we want; that we aspire for. A generation line which in Arabic we call Jil-Umno, meaning the inheritors of the future leadership of Umno.

104. As such, if at the last assembly I had mentioned cadreship, at this assembly I want to touch on the issue of content or education.

105. Among the criteria pertaining to the education of Jil-Umno are:

First criterion: Jil-Umno with holistic or comprehensive knowledge, namely, those who are intelligent, clever and wise, who are not only knowledgeable and skilled, but put their knowledge into practice.

Second criterion: Jil-Umno with identity and integrity, meaning this group of youths must be trained so they are balanced, have morals, have values of moderation, are not extremist or overly liberal to the extent of putting aside the noble religious values.

Third criterion: Jil-Umno who are global in nature. In short, although they are highly educated at the Azhar University in Madinah or at Harvard, Oxford or Cambridge, they are never detached from Asian values, Malay modesty and the noble values of our country.

This is the education activity that we have to undertake to turn out excellent

Jil-Umno.

106. So, it is our moral task and responsibility to continue guiding, training, educating and nurturing the young generation and giving them the opportunity and space commensurate with their ability and personality following the acceptance of the society and related organisations.

107. In conclusion, Jil-Umno or the inheritors of the leadership that we want are strong and not offspring who are weak. Then only will we be able to breathe easy and be comfortable when handing over the party to them.

108. In this context, if we want to entice the young generation, Umno must be seen as a party that is willing to eradicate corruption and money politics because corruption is the source of much destruction and defect.

109. Over and above everything else, rejuvenation of a party like Umno that is older than 68 years and almost 25,000 days of age is that the spirit of struggle must continue to burn as if it had just been established.

110. In fact, everything must be rejuvenated, including how we use technology, strategy and our approach as a creative and innovative party in all matters.

111. As for Wanita Umno, we will continue to uphold and recognise its deeds and sacrifices over the years. At the current assembly, the Wanita leadership had expressed its aspiration to be accorded more recognition than merely being regarded as the backbone of the party.

112. In this matter, we will consider and hold consultations with all related quarters on the creation of a post of Wanita Umno vice-head at the divisional

level and the post of vice-president at the national level.

113. But I know there will be resistance. What is important and of priority is that we as a party will discuss and look at all factors so that whatever decision we take will be a joint decision to honour and recognise Wanita Umno after 66 years.

114. As for the requests of Umno Youth and Puteri Umno, which want more members below 40 to be given suitable opportunities and posts, we will also discuss and look into the matter from all aspects so that the decisions taken would be apt.

115. I know, I know very well, the issue which is being hotly discussed and awaited by all is the Sedition Act 1948.

116. Be patient, listen first to what I have to say.

117. It seems, based on what we saw just now, I heard opinions and suggestions from the deputy president, Wanita, Youth, Puteri, motions from divisions, the restlessness of the voices at the grassroots and the views of the NGOs and, as such, as the prime minister, I have decided that the Sedition Act will be retained.

118. In fact, the act will not only be retained, but will also be strengthened at least in two aspects.

119. First, we will include a special provision to safeguard the sanctity of Islam. In fact, other religions also cannot be insulted.

120. Second, we will impose harsh action against anyone instigating Sabah and Sarawak to leave Malaysia.

121. Whatever word, act or speech that is seditious in nature and insulting to Islam, the Malays and the rulers will be prohibited and opposed at all cost.

122. Another matter that all will want to know is my actual stand, as the president, on the future of the Malays and Bumiputeras.

123. Let it be known that I stand here not just as the prime minister; I also stand here not just as the Umno president, but I stand and talk in front of you comrades as a continuity of the voice and inheritor of the struggle of the Malay Bumiputeras.

124. As such, it is impossible that I am willing to let my descendents and race to be impoverished, humiliated, to be vagrants and unhappy in their own land.

125. I will remain committed to championing the lot of the Malays and Bumiputeras. This is not mere lip service, but my comrades and I in the party and government have carried out what's possible to prove it.

126. In this regard, as long as there is breath in my body, together with the deputy prime minister and the party leadership, I am committed to meeting at least once a month to ensure that the direction and agenda to empower the Malay economy are carried through.

127. In fact, we will fulfill everything that is promised in my speech at the Dewan Agong Tuanku Canselor, UiTM, last year, one by one.

Indeed, the Barisan National government spearheaded by Umno is a government which fulfils its promises.

128. Regardless, sometimes, we feel tired and fatigued when we are incessantly yelled at, criticised and harangued.

129. At times, we also feel disappointed when some of our own race doubt this struggle.

130. As such, as president, I want to implore,

Bring back ... the spirit of Umno which is increasingly diminishing

Revive ... Umno's soul which is almost dim.

Light up ... the spirit of our original struggle and soul of Umno which is

gradually disappearing.

Instil a feeling of love for the party, because it is there ... it is there where we will find the answer.

131. To the Umno grassroots, who since the past were devoted and committed in their struggle, we must repay their sacrifices and loyalty by continuing to champion the welfare of the race, because it is Umno upon which they seek shelter and hope for the future of all.

132. Wake up, realise that actually we do not have many choices, only one.

If the party falls, if the party keels over and collapses, the hopes of the Malays and Bumiputeras will also be buried.

133. Let us rise, let us stand. Hold your heads high, don't regress, look forward; once the sail is raised, once the anchor is hauled up, the Umno ship cannot backtrack.

We will ensure that the Sang Saka Bangsa flag will continue to fly proudly.

134. Raise your right hand, hold tightly to this struggle, as a symbol of racial solidarity.

Come! Come, place it on your chest where your heart is.

Together we hail, together we shout.

March on, Malays!

March on, Bumiputeras!

March on, Umno!

March on, Barisan Nasional!

March on, Malaysia!

Thank you. – Bernama, November 27, 2014.

* Datuk Seri Najib Razak is the Umno president. This speech was delivered by him at the Umno general assembly today.

* This is the personal opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malaysian Insider.