Umno’s cooperation with other political blocs following the 15th General Election should not be mistaken as participation in the unity government, according to Umno Wanita chief Datuk Seri Noraini Ahmad, who emphasised that the party remains independent in principle and direction.
Delivering her policy address at the 2025 Umno General Assembly, Noraini explained that Umno’s political collaboration, including its engagement with Pakatan Harapan under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s administration, was guided by careful calculation rather than compromise of core values. She stressed that the party’s approach over more than three years of the current government reflected political maturity, courage in confronting challenges, and firmness in defending religion, race and the constitutional monarchy.
Noraini made it clear that cooperation should not be interpreted as weakness. She outlined that Umno’s decisions were taken after weighing risks and opportunities, with clear boundaries established to safeguard the party’s identity and responsibilities. In her view, dialogue and negotiation were necessary tools in politics, but they did not equate to surrender or loss of principle.
She further noted that Umno’s decision not to formally align with certain political parties did not mean the door to cooperation was permanently shut. Instead, she said any collaboration must place Umno in a leadership role rather than a supporting one. Drawing on the party’s long history, experience and strong grassroots network, Noraini argued that Umno should position itself as a core political force capable of setting the agenda.
Addressing internal unity, Noraini warned that Wanita Umno could not afford to move forward with conflicting voices. She underscored the need for discipline within the wing, cautioning against actions or narratives that could weaken the party from within or undermine collective strength.
On party reforms, Noraini renewed Wanita Umno’s call for women to hold at least 30% of leadership positions, with the quota formally enshrined in the party constitution. She said women should no longer be viewed merely as campaign machinery during elections, but as essential contributors to policymaking and strategic direction.
In addition, Noraini urged Umno to take the lead in pushing for the immediate establishment of a Political Funding Act. She acknowledged that such legislation might unsettle those fearful of transparency, but insisted that Umno had nothing to hide. According to her, the proposed law should serve as a cornerstone of cleaner and more accountable politics, reflecting a new political culture that prioritises public interest.
Noraini concluded that Umno’s strength lay in its ability to cooperate without losing its soul, reform without abandoning tradition, and lead without fear.
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