Umno celebrates 79th anniversary: Reflecting on legacy, embracing change
KUALA LUMPUR: As Malaysia's oldest political party, Umno is set to celebrate its 79th anniversary tomorrow, with attention focused not only on the ceremony but also on the party's reflection of its role in the nation's evolving and dynamic political landscape.
Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi is scheduled to deliver a keynote address outlining Umno's future direction as it approaches its 80th year since its inception in 1946 — a speech expected to set the tone for what lies ahead for the party.
A special tahlil to honour former Umno president and fifth prime minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, who died on April 14, will also be part of the agenda.
Umno information chief Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said in an open letter ahead of the anniversary, called on members to embrace discipline, unity and change, stressing that the party's continued relevance depended on its ability to lead, not merely to survive.
"Umno still stands today not merely because of nostalgia, but because the people continue to see its role as the guardian of religion and race, a stabilising force in government, and a compass for the nation's direction.
"Umno is not a party born of vengeance or disappointment. It is a political institution forged from the struggle of the Malays. It remains strong because it honours discipline in leadership, strengthens trust with the grassroots, and dares to embrace change," she said.
This message of reflection and renewal will anchor the party's 79th anniversary celebration at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur (WTC KL), where, for the first time, it will coincide with the convocation of the Umno Patriotic School (SPU).
The event will begin with a graduation procession of SPU participants at Dewan Tun Hussein Onn, followed by the presentation of certificates to 50 graduates, marking the completion of their 12-week leadership course.
Launched earlier this year, the SPU programme is focused on developing young leaders aged 16 to 30 from across Malaysia, underscoring Umno's unwavering commitment to shaping the future leadership of the nation.
Azalina also said that Umno's strength lies in discipline — the kind that allows members to act with maturity, dignity and purpose, even in the face of internal differences or electoral setbacks.
"From branch meetings to by-elections — in Pelangai, Nenggiri, Mahkota and Ayer Kuning — our machinery remained united and orderly. Volunteers came forward not just to serve, but because they understood the responsibility of the struggle," she said.
"This culture sets Umno apart. We don't walk away out of frustration. We don't punish those who aren't chosen. We stay loyal because we believe the struggle is greater than any individual."
She said the recent branch meetings had unfolded peacefully across the country, with high attendance — a clear sign that the grassroots still believed in Umno's role.
Azalina also said the party's readiness to evolve, from embracing digital platforms and modern storytelling to launching initiatives like the SPU, demonstrated that it was not just preserving its legacy but also preparing for the future.
"Umno has repeatedly shown it is willing to build coalitions for national stability, as long as it does not compromise its core values.
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