It is not impossible for Umno to work together with the DAP if it can work with the MCA that was once also seen as an "extreme" party, former premier Dr Mahathir Mohamad said today.
Having led both the BN and Harapan coalitions, Mahathir was asked his views on Pasir Salak MP Tajuddin Abdul Rahman's reported remarks that it would be possible for Umno to work with the DAP if the party becomes more moderate.
"I have worked with DAP [...] the DAP sometimes is extreme but we can work with them.
"The fact is that, in Malaysia, people are of different races. They all have the rights to be in politics," he said.
"So, even if you don't like them, still have to accept that all governments in Malaysia are multi-racial.
"There cannot be only one race ruling this country," Mahathir added when met by reporters at the launch of a forum in Ampang today.
In an interview with Free Malaysia Today, Tajuddin claimed that the Malay community still views DAP as a "Chinese-based racist party".
Mahathir, however, said the matter of cooperation with the DAP is up to Umno to decide.
"Up to Umno. Umno has worked with MCA and the MCA was also at one point (seen as) 'extreme'," said the Langkawi MP.
Mahathir added that the DAP should also realise Malaysia's multi-culture state and not only serve one race.
"DAP should also realise that this is a multi-racial country, so you can't just work for your own race."
Meanwhile, on the strained ties between Perikatan Nasional and Muafakat Nasional following Umno's break-up with Bersatu, Mahathir said such matter is a normal occurrence in politics.
"In Malaysia, there are too many parties and each party has problems with break-ups."
Mahathirleft Umno to set up Bersatu and is now in the process of registering Parti Pejuang Tanah Air.
Umno leaders at its annual general assembly last week had stated a need for the party to be in a dominant position in any new government formed after the 15th general election. - Mkini
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