Zahid joking or body-shaming Rauf, Noraini at Umno assembly?

LocalPolitics
12 Sep 2026 • 8:34 PM MYT
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Image from: Zahid joking or body-shaming Rauf, Noraini at Umno assembly?
Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi after his winding-up speech at the 2026 Umno General Assembly at Dewan Merdeka, World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur (WTCKL) today. - Photo by Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR - Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi appeared to make light-hearted remarks about the physical appearance of two senior party leaders, Melaka Umno Liaison Committee chairman Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh and Wanita Umno chief Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad, during his speech at the party’s 2026 General Assembly, today.

Zahid first appeared to poke fun at Rauf while referring to Melaka’s political situation and the possibility of the state being considered “bulat” under the leadership of the Melaka Chief Minister.

“If Melaka is considered ‘bulat’ because of Rauf, InsyaAllah, there is not just one formula. Johor, Negeri Sembilan; Melaka next? I am simply asking who is ‘bulat’, not trying to stir things up.

“Earlier, my officers advised me to speak properly and be a little more serious, but ultimately, it is up to me what I want to say,” he said jokingly.

Image from: Zahid joking or body-shaming Rauf, Noraini at Umno assembly?
Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi after his winding-up speech at the 2026 Umno General Assembly at Dewan Merdeka, World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur (WTCKL) today. - Photo by Bernama

He later turned his attention to Noraini, making remarks about her weight and appearance while appearing to urge her to eat more.

“Do not blame Noraini, I feel sorry for her. She is already getting thinner and now looks like a grandmother too. Noraini, eat a little more. Did you get any injections?” he asked.

Zahid subsequently mentioned weight-loss medications while explaining that the suggestion had come from his wife.

“Actually, I am not saying I know, but Ozempic and Mounjaro. I did not ask for it; my wife told me to,” he said.

The remarks have drawn attention because of their references to the physical appearance and weight of the two Umno leaders, although Zahid presented them in a joking context during his speech.

Noraini’s changing appearance has also previously attracted attention online, with some netizens commenting that she appeared slimmer and looked different, while others expressed concern about whether she was unwell.

The remarks came during the Umno General Assembly 2026, where Zahid addressed party members and delegates on Umno’s political direction and preparations for the next general election.

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