Sabah Umno must return to the people, avoid past mistakes, says Bung Moktar
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah Umno must re-energise by reconnecting with the people and learning from its past.
The party must also embrace the youth and digital transformation to remain relevant in today's political landscape.
Sabah Umno chief Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin said this, quoting party president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahir Hamidi, in conjunction with the party's 79th anniversary on Sunday (May 11).
'Our strength lies not in political rhetoric, but in our proven track record. In Sabah, Umno has been instrumental in establishing the state's first local university, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, and building schools, clinics, roads, and creating job and business opportunities across the state,' he said.
Bung Moktar stated that Zahid, in his anniversary speech, emphasised three key directions to guide Sabah Umno as it prepares for the upcoming 17th state election (PRN-17).
'First, Umno must return to the people. We can no longer rely on promises alone. Our leaders must go to the ground, listen to the people's grievances, and provide real solutions. Popularity is meaningless without sincerity and hard work.
'Second, we must not repeat past mistakes. Our defeats did not stem from the opposition's strength but our own internal weaknesses. In Sabah, unity is crucial. Differences in opinion should never lead to division. Our battle is with political opponents, not among ourselves.
'Third, Umno must be a party of the future, not one stuck in nostalgia. In this digital era, we must innovate and empower the younger generation in Sabah; they are the torchbearers of our struggle,' he said.
He added that Zahid's message was not just a reflection on the party's past contributions, but a rallying cry for Sabah Umno to rise again amid the country's evolving political climate.
Bung Moktar called on all leaders, party machinery and members across the state to rise, unite, and fight, making PRN-17 a platform for Sabah Umno's resurgence.
'We will not allow those who never served to reap what they did not sow. We have a legacy to honour, and a future to shape,' he said.
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