Johor bahru: UMNO vice-president Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin stated that the party remains open to welcoming back members and leaders from Bersatu to enhance Malay unity. As chairman of the Penyatuan Rumah Bangsa Committee, he emphasized that forming a new party is unnecessary.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohamed Khaled encouraged a return to UMNO, hoping for unification among Malays under a single platform, as continued division does not benefit Malay interests. He stressed the importance of unity to address Malay challenges effectively and maintain strength.

He noted that while some suggest the timing is right for general or state elections, the decision lies with party leadership to evaluate all relevant factors. Mohamed Khaled, also serving as Defence Minister, highlighted that Bersatu's internal crisis exposes the party's fragility and affects Perikatan Nasional's stability, questioning public confidence in the party.

The crisis, he added, suggests a focus on position struggles rather than addressing public needs. Recently, Bersatu expelled 17 members, including four Members of Parliament and two assemblymen, for violating the party's constitution. They have 14 days to appeal.

The media previously reported that UMNO Supreme Council member Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Maslan mentioned that applications from Bersatu members wishing to rejoin UMNO must be reviewed by the Supreme Council before a decision is made.