"Analyst: DAP's Recent Statements Benefit Umno in Unexpected Ways"

"Analyst: DAP's Recent Statements Benefit Umno in Unexpected Ways"



Image credit: MalaysiaToday


According to political analyst Azmi Hassan, the recent controversies sparked by DAP leaders have actually provided a silver lining for Umno. These controversies, particularly the remarks made by DAP leaders on issues concerning race and religion, have allowed Umno to strengthen its position as the defender of Islam and the Malays.


One instance of such controversy occurred when Beruas MP Ngeh Koo Ham proposed including a non-Muslim constitutional expert in a committee to study conflicts between shariah laws and the Federal Constitution. This proposal received criticism from Umno leaders and even drew a rebuke from the Selangor palace.


In another incident, DAP veteran Lim Kit Siang's comment about a non-Malay potentially becoming the prime minister sparked strong reactions from Umno leaders, including Supreme Council member Puad Zarkashi and Youth chief Dr Akmal Salleh. Similarly, Kuala Lumpur DAP chairman Tan Kok Wai's call for local elections in the capital city did not sit well with Umno. According to Azmi, these controversies have presented an opportunity for Umno to publicly confront its traditional rival, now turned ally in the unity government.


This allows Umno to convey the message that it has not strayed from its principle of championing the interests of Malays and Muslims. Furthermore, Azmi believes that these controversies have enabled Umno to refute the opposition's claims that it is subservient to the DAP. By standing up to the DAP and asserting its relevance and ability to safeguard the interests of the Malays, Umno has demonstrated that it is not submissive.


Former Umno Supreme Council member Isham Jalil previously claimed that the party had lost support from the Malays because it had veered away from its core principles and had become a lackey to the DAP. However, the recent events have allowed Umno to counter these allegations and show its commitment to the cause. Mazlan Ali, from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), considers the statements made by DAP leaders as counterproductive to the government.


Although these statements may create tensions within the unity government, Mazlan does not expect Umno to withdraw from Anwar Ibrahim's administration as a consequence. Touching on sensitive issues can generate anxiety among Umno members and the Malay community as a whole. In summary, the controversies triggered by DAP leaders have inadvertently benefited Umno.


These controversies have enabled Umno to reinforce its image as the defender of Islam and the Malays, as well as to challenge the perception of being submissive to the DAP. By capitalizing on these opportunities, Umno has demonstrated its continued relevance and ability to safeguard the interests of the Malays.