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THE potential return of Khairy Jamaluddin and Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein to Umno is being viewed by analysts as a development that could reshape the party’s political positioning, offering both opportunities and risks.
Prof. Dr Rabi’ah Aminudin of International Islamic University Malaysia said Khairy has consistently cultivated his image as a progressive Malay politician, even during his time outside formal politics.
Through platforms such as Keluar Sekejap and HotFM, he has remained visible and influential, particularly among younger, urban Malays.
“He might serve as a magnetic factor for Umno, which has been losing ground among urban Malay voters as well as non-Malay communities,” she said.
Rabi’ah added that Hishammuddin, by contrast, is likely to appeal to the party’s traditional base, especially those disenchanted by Umno’s internal purge in 2023.
Separately, political analyst Prof James Chin described the development as “politically good news” for Umno, particularly in reinforcing the party’s image as inclusive and willing to reconcile with former members.
“It gives the impression that Umno is forgiving errant members, which could help strengthen the party,” he said.
However, Chin cautioned that Khairy’s return is not without complications. He noted that the former minister’s recent media presence, especially through his podcast Keluar Sekejap, may have reshaped public perceptions.
“While the podcast is popular, it has also painted him in a very different way, and not all of it is positive,” Chin said.
“There are pluses and minuses, and the real impact will only be clear once he is given a seat, and depending on what kind of seat it is.”
Chin added that Khairy may face challenges due to his past criticisms of Umno while outside the party.
“He made many comments that could come back to haunt him,” he said, noting that this could complicate his reintegration into the party and its leadership structure.
On Hishammuddin, Chin suggested that the former defence minister is likely to return to his traditional political base.
“Hishammuddin will likely go back to Johor and contest there,” he said.
Meanwhile, Rabi’ah highlighted that Umno supporters do not typically translate into votes for the Pakatan Harapan alliance.
However, she noted that a more strategic outlook among voters could shift perceptions, particularly given the complementary demographics between the two coalitions.
On the other hand, Chin argued that Khairy’s return to Umno may not necessarily benefit the current unity government under Kerajaan Madani.
“It may not be good news for the Madani government,” he said, adding that Khairy might have been a better fit politically had he joined PKR instead.
Rabi’ah concluded that Khairy’s political comeback remains plausible, particularly if he secures a safe seat and re-enters Umno’s Supreme Council, maintaining his long-standing positioning as a “prime minister in waiting” with strong appeal among young, urban Malay voters. – March 18, 2026