Tok Mat: BN must address 'toxic' reputation

 

BN kicked off its convention today with coalition deputy president Mohamad Hasan warning delegates that BN must evolve in order to address its "toxic" reputation.

In his speech, Mohamad said BN was synonymous with its brand of multi-racial politics which brought stability after the events of May 13, 1969, but now this brand required "reinvention" or "recalibration".

"The reason is simple. Times have changed... is BN still trapped in nostalgia? Just because we succeeded based on this formula, it doesn't mean it will work forever.

"When I ask (people), how do you define 'BN'? I get the 'standard' answers. Many say BN is a multi-racial party, (or) BN is the ruling party or BN is a coalition controlled by Umno,” he said.

However, the coalition’s image has also taken a hit.

"There are worse versions as well. BN is considered 'power crazy', corrupt, abuses power and other negative connotation.

"This is worrying. We are seen as a political party (that is happy) with the negative status quo which does not inspire imagination.

"We have to change this toxic perception. It is very important for us to present a BN that is contemporary, fresh and future-proof," he added.

Mohamad said in order to address this problem, BN must evolve from being a political coalition into an "idea".

He urged the coalition to present itself as an example of unity, diversity, multiculturalism and progress.

"(We want people) to imagine muhibbah (camaraderie) when they hear the word 'BN'. In their imagination, they see unity, a celebration of diversity and a political approach that is moderate and progressive," he said.

The BN deputy president pointed out that this had been done before. Following the May 13 riots, BN emerged from an idea to realise power-sharing, development, redistributing wealth and poverty eradication.

In the current context, Mohamad said BN should project itself as an idea of "unity for prosperity" along with stability and justice.

"We must do everything we can to discard the perception (that BN) is power (hungry), corrupt and immoral.

"To face the next election, BN must project an image that is revolutionary - cool but serious and promising," he added.

Mohamad Hasan

‘Reject political opportunism’

Mohamad said the remaining BN parties are on a moral high ground, unlike the component parties which left the coalition after the 2018 election.

"We must reject political opportunism. Do not give any room to political brokers. Instead, make room for candidates who are wise, of good morals, principled and would dedicate their lives to the country.

"Previously, we had dozens of component parties. When we lost (in 2018), we are left with four. There are those who left us because their morals, goals and loyalty have wavered and their appetite is insatiable," he added.

The BN convention is a one-day event as part of its general election build-up and also to commemorate the coalition's 48th anniversary.

This event is not expected to pass any resolutions. However, the coalition is expected to make a declaration before the event closes. - Mkini