UMNO,MCA and MIC advancing together as brothers

I am writing in response to Datuk Seri Dr. Wee Ka Siong in an article entitled “UMNO more respectful now, MCA told”, dated 27th January 2020.

First and foremost, we have come a long way since the defeat of Barisan Nasional in GE-14. Bear in mind that this coalition of ours was founded in 1973, now reaching 47 years in existence. This coalition, first started during the municipal election of 1952, was an accidental one.

It was seen that an informal electoral pact between UMNO and MCA at that moment in time, was very much viable since there is an absence of ethnic and communal based parties contesting the election. UMNO and MCA, as brothers, have weighed out the pros and cons, the supports and resistance both parties would receive if they were to cooperate instead of competing with one another.

In 1953, a year after the municipal election of 1952, UMNO and MCA formalized under Parti Perikatan.

UMNO and MCA individually have co-operated, work and negotiate together even before 1957. Putting it in a simpler manner, Malaysia as we know today is a result of rigorous and honest dialogues undertook by our wise and often nonchalant founding fathers in the coalition.

I agree with Datuk Seri Dr. Wee Ka Siong. That it would be a shame if Barisan Nasional were to separate now. At this juncture, all leaders in the coalition must reform and strengthen Barisan Nasional. At the same time, we must also welcome Muafakat Nasional as a new independent addition to our pact. As much as we should make Muafakat Nasional work, we should also make Barisan Nasional as the preferred choice for the electorates, again.

Thus, UMNO Johor will continue to provide stable and responsible leadership for Barisan Nasional. We are all equals in the coalition, but as the first amongst equals, UMNO must demonstrate Kepimpinan Melayu or Malay Leadership that is trustworthy, frank and wise. Each of us in the coalition, including MIC, represents the interest of our respective communities. There will be disagreements, I am sure of that. But we can always accommodate, as always, – for the sake of Malaysia. Let us continue to remind ourselves, that this country was built by moderates. Malaysia is meant to be a moderate nation. Therefore, it is also our utmost responsibility to not disregard this fact.

Concerning the Tanjung Piai by-election, it was a manifestation of UMNO’s commitment, especially UMNO Johor, to the spirit of power-sharing and consensus. Together, we will achieve greater heights if we try to understand each other’s concerns and discuss it frankly. As brothers who have to mend this nation together with our bare hands.

Losing the last election has made us realized the flaws in Barisan Nasional. Now, it is our principal duty to fix it.

Datuk Ir. Haji Hasni Mohammad
Pengerusi Badan Perhubungan UMNO Negeri Johor