Tok Mat Says Umno Unfazed by ‘Haunted House’ Jibe at Rumah Bangsa Initiative

SEREMBAN, March 13 — Mohamad Hasan said United Malays National Organisation (Umno) is unfazed by how some parties label the party, stressing that its main focus now is strengthening internal unity as part of efforts to rebuild and reinforce the organisation.

The deputy president said Umno is currently working to restore its strength from the grassroots level, with the aim of ensuring strong unity among members as the foundation for facing future political challenges.

“It does not matter if people call us a ‘haunted house’ in reference to the Rumah Bangsa initiative — that is their choice. As the saying goes, the way we speak reflects our character.

“If we want to show that we come from a good upbringing, we should use proper language, especially during the fasting month,” he said after attending a breaking-of-fast event with the leadership of the Rembau Umno Division Committee here last night.

Earlier, Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi announced that the party would welcome back former members who had been expelled or suspended through the Rumah Bangsa initiative, allowing them to return without any conditions.

Mohamad, who is also the Member of Parliament for Rembau, added that Umno has begun internal discussions to prepare for the possibility of the Melaka state election later this year and the Johor state election next year.

“We have asked branches to hold their meetings earlier, around April and May, while divisional meetings will take place between June and July. After that, our attention will shift towards assisting our friends in Melaka and Johor,” he said.

He added that Umno’s current priority is to support the government’s efforts to maintain economic growth and stability, particularly as the conflict in West Asia could have direct or indirect effects on Malaysia. — Bernama