'Power sharing not sign of party's weakness, but growing democracy'
UMNO AGM | The sharing of power in forming multi-coalition governments is not a sign of a political party's weakness, but rather a maturing democracy, Wanita Umno’s chief Noraini Ahmad said today.
In her policy speech at the Wanita Umno’s general assembly, Noraini (above) reminded 1,131 delegates gathered at Dewan Tun Hussein Onn, World Trade Centre, that the trend is not unique to Malaysia but rather a global reality.
UMNO AGM | The sharing of power in forming multi-coalition governments is not a sign of a political party's weakness, but rather a maturing democracy, Wanita Umno’s chief Noraini Ahmad said today.
In her policy speech at the Wanita Umno’s general assembly, Noraini (above) reminded 1,131 delegates gathered at Dewan Tun Hussein Onn, World Trade Centre, that the trend is not unique to Malaysia but rather a global reality.
She said around the world, the era of a single party holding full power has become history, citing examples of present governments in Germany, the Netherlands, and closer to home, Indonesia and Thailand.
“Why is this happening? Because today’s voters have changed. Their votes are split among various parties, not just one or two major parties.
“They no longer look to nostalgia and history. They look at offers and the future,” she said.
“They are more critical, not easily convinced by political promises, and are bolder in questioning government policies.
“This is the new reality of modern politics. Power is shared. Differences are respected, and governments are formed through understanding and compromise,” said Noraini, who is also the plantation and commodities minister.
‘Highly dynamic’
In Malaysia, Noraini said the trend began during the 15th general election, when Umno won only 30 parliamentary seats and formed a coalition government with Pakatan Harapan and Gabungan Parti Sarawak.
“Political cooperation is highly dynamic. That is why we must be wise in building relationships between parties,” she added.
Noraini went on to reiterate that while Umno has accepted the political reality, cooperation does not mean a “submission” and compromise of its “red lines”, as outlined by party deputy president Mohamad Hasan in his opening speech last night.
Further, Noraini today rallied her members to unite ahead of the next 16th general election, cautioning that a failure to interpret ground signals from voters - including during the last Sabah state election when the party only won six seats - would risk similar repercussions.
“This wave cannot be allowed to advance unchecked. It must be stopped.
“And the number we hold today must not decrease at all. We must draw a full stop and begin the resurgence,” she said.
