Former prime minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said that amending the Umno constitution would not make the party stronger if there was no change in the attitude of its members.

He said the amendments proposed by the current party leadership was more on giving the party a new look to restore its image, but what was more important was the content.

abdullah ahmad badawi pak lah parliament pc 101208 02The intention to amend the constitution was good because they wanted to strengthen the party structure and regulations so that Umno remained relevant and would continue to be accepted by the people and the Malays, he added.

However, he said, amending the constitution could not be regarded a solution to solve problems in the party.

"Actually, what makes us strong are party members who are sincere, trustworthy and responsible. This is important. Otherwise, we can make regulations after regulations, but it will take us no where.

"Don't make the constitutional amendments a talisman because what is important is for us to be strong in terms of spirit, morality, love for the party and the desire to continue to fight on, even if not holding high post in the party," he said at an Aidilfitri feast with Kepala Batas Umno veterans yesterday.

Abdullah, who is former Umno president, said it was not wrong for Umno to aspire to be a strong party and to continue to helm the country's administration.

"What is important is that this intention is supported with efforts," he added.

- Bernama