In a renewed effort to consolidate the Malay voice, former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad has initiated a new movement in collaboration with leaders from Bersatu and PAS. This initiative, described as an unofficial alliance under the concept of a “payung besar” or “big umbrella,” is said to aim at addressing pressing concerns within the Malay community, though it is not positioned as a political venture.
The announcement came after a closed-door discussion between Dr Mahathir and top leaders from Perikatan Nasional, including Bersatu president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, PAS deputy president Datuk Seri Ibrahim Tuan Man, and several other senior party figures. The group collectively voiced concern over what they perceive as rising challenges facing Malays in the country—issues they argue can only be tackled effectively through unity and a stronger political presence.
Dr Mahathir emphasized that the formation of this platform is a response to what he views as the fragmentation of the Malay political landscape. He pointed out that the disunity among Malays is weakening their position, and that efforts must be made to reunite them under one common purpose. While asserting that the movement is not tied to any political ambitions, he suggested that power must be regained by Malay leadership in order to implement meaningful solutions.
Among the issues highlighted during the announcement were the erosion of the Malay language and concerns surrounding Malay rights. These, according to Dr Mahathir, reflect deeper structural challenges that require a unified front to resolve. He expressed hope that members of UMNO would consider joining this collective if they align with its objectives, noting that the initiative is inclusive of all Malays regardless of their current political affiliations.
The idea behind the “payung besar” movement is to create a broad-based platform where all Malays can find common ground. Dr Mahathir insisted that division only leads to failure, and that the only viable path to securing the interests of the Malay community is through cooperation and unity.
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