UMNO Deputy President Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan has issued a strong call for the party to confront and overcome what he describes as "toxic politics," which he warns could exacerbate racial tensions and deepen divisions within Malaysian society. Speaking at the simultaneous opening of UMNO's Wanita, Pemuda, and Puteri wings, Mohamad Hasan emphasized the need for a concerted effort to address the detrimental effects of such divisive political behavior.
In his address, Mohamad Hasan, who also serves as the Deputy Chairman of Barisan Nasional and the Foreign Minister, outlined the grave consequences of unchecked toxic politics. He cautioned that extreme hatred and divisiveness not only erode reason and truth but also inflict severe damage on the political culture and manners of the Malays. Drawing parallels to recent riots and unrest in major cities in England and Northern Ireland, he illustrated how toxic politics can lead to widespread suffering and societal harm, with innocent individuals bearing the brunt of the fallout.
“This situation should serve as a stark warning of the dangers posed by toxic politics and blind prejudice,” Mohamad Hasan said. He urged the representatives of the Wanita, Youth, and Puteri wings to actively engage in discussions on how to counteract the negative impacts of such politics, stressing the importance of finding effective solutions to prevent further damage.
Looking ahead, Mohamad Hasan acknowledged the critical role that UMNO's ability to address toxic politics will play in the party's future success. He warned that failure to navigate these challenges could result in even tougher electoral battles in the coming years, potentially more challenging than the recent 15th General Election (PRU15). He highlighted the need for UMNO to adapt to the evolving political landscape, particularly in light of the changing attitudes of the younger generation, often referred to as "Generation Z."
Mohamad Hasan noted that this generation, which grew up in an era where UMNO is no longer the dominant force in Malaysian politics, tends to engage with politics through social media rather than traditional party structures. This shift in engagement requires UMNO to rethink its strategies and approach to connect with and appeal to younger voters.
He proposed the formation of a dedicated "UMNO Success Team," designed to focus on revitalizing the party's image and appeal. This team, he suggested, should operate like a business entity, employing marketing strategies based on consumer behavior to re-engage voters and restore UMNO's prominence in the political arena.
As the National Day approaches, Mohamad Hasan also emphasized the importance of preserving peace and celebrating the progress achieved by the nation. He urged Malaysians to set aside political rivalries and honor the sacrifices made by past freedom fighters and pioneers. “Let us cultivate a shared determination to advance our beloved homeland, ensuring it remains peaceful, prosperous, and exemplary,” he concluded.
In summary, Mohamad Hasan's address underscores UMNO's need to tackle the challenges of toxic politics head-on and adapt to a rapidly changing political environment. By addressing these issues, UMNO aims to strengthen its position and foster a more united and forward-looking political landscape in Malaysia.
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