Zahid urges Malay NGO not to let Najib walk alone

Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak should not be left alone to face relentless attacks against his administration.

In making the call, Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi today reiterated his loyalty to Najib and highlighted the Malay Consultative Council's (MPM) role as an organisation set-up to contribute towards nation building agenda.

"He (Najib) has been assaulted, pressured and fired with numerous issues but his patience and resistance is extraordinary.

"Fortunately he never lost focus because the 'blood of (former premier Abdul) Razak' flows in his veins," said Zahid in his speech to launch MPM's new headquarters, located within one of the government bungalows along Jalan Ledang, nearby Parliament in Kuala Lumpur.

"I promise I will continue to assist him to translate his commitment (towards nation building), but please don't leave us alone.

"I am confident that the MPM is behind us to also assist in realising the agenda (to unite the nation)," said the Umno de facto deputy president.

10 years free rent

Earlier in his speech, Zahid noted how Malaysia continues to face the challenge of coming up with a national agenda that transcends its multiracial and multireligious society, from when the time the country was formed with Sabah and Sarawak.

In crediting MPM's contributions, Zahid reassured them that they could continue to focus on the bigger agenda, as the government would assist to pay their monthly rent of RM2,800 and utilities bill for the next 10 years.

"Don't ask where I will find 'halal money' to settle the amount.

"The important thing is, don't worry," said Zahid, adding that MPM could start thinking "without a box" and find new ways to contribute towards uniting the nation.

Among others, he said the MPM could begin by widening its membership circle to include more young Malay professionals.

Najib had in his Budget 2018 speech described Zahid as a "loyal friend" and emphasised the need for all BN leaders to emulate this.

The MPM was first set-up in February 2009 and its secretary-general Hasan Mad said that his members would continue to champion the agenda of strengthening the nation, preserving Malay culture, as well as Islam, the Malay rulers and the constitution.- Mkini