Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has reminded leaders of the party’s Youth wing to confront criticism with maturity and openness, stressing that disagreements are an unavoidable feature of political life and should not be met with shortcuts or defensive reactions.
Speaking to reporters in Putrajaya on January 6, 2026, Zahid said political leaders who are comfortable criticising others must also be prepared to receive criticism themselves. He cautioned against labelling dissenting voices as undemocratic or dismissing opposing views simply because they challenge one’s position. According to him, differences of opinion should be addressed through explanation and engagement rather than punitive measures or emotional responses.
Zahid’s remarks came amid questions surrounding Umno Youth chief Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh, who recently hinted that he might consider stepping aside from his position. While Zahid did not single out any individual, he said the principles he outlined applied broadly to all youth leaders, regardless of party affiliation.
Drawing on his own political journey, Zahid noted that both he and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had previously led Umno’s Youth wing, giving them a clear understanding of the pressures faced by young leaders. He said it was natural for Youth leaders to hold strong ideals, even if those ideals were not always widely accepted within the party or beyond.
He added that political struggle inevitably involves disagreement and resistance, and leaders should be prepared to respond with reasoned arguments rather than resorting to actions that could deepen divisions. Zahid emphasised that differing views should be recognised as part of healthy political discourse, rather than something to be feared or suppressed.
Reflecting on his own experiences, Zahid acknowledged that setbacks are part of leadership and political life. He likened the journey to encountering obstacles and failures along the way, but said such moments did not define the end of one’s role or relevance. Instead, he suggested that resilience and the willingness to rise again were essential qualities for any political leader.
When asked whether he would accept a resignation should Akmal formally offer one, Zahid said the matter had not crossed his mind. His response suggested that the focus remained on guiding leaders through challenges rather than hastily accepting exits prompted by pressure or criticism.
Zahid’s comments underscored a broader message aimed at reinforcing internal party resilience, encouraging Umno’s younger leaders to endure criticism, defend their ideas constructively and continue engaging within the political process without seeking shortcuts.
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