Bagan datuk: Applications to join Rumah Bangsa have received a very encouraging response, said UMNO president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. However, Ahmad Zahid, who is also Deputy Prime Minister, said applications to join the committee chaired by Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin must be made formally to avoid problems in the future.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid expressed confidence in UMNO's growth, especially during the month of Ramadan, as new members express their interest in rejoining the party. He addressed media inquiries regarding the response to Rumah Bangsa applications during the Ihya Ramadan Al-Mubarak 1447H 2026M Programme in the Bagan Datuk parliamentary constituency.
Earlier, Ahmad Zahid had announced that UMNO is welcoming back former members who had been expelled or suspended through the 'Rumah Bangsa' initiative. This initiative is also open to any individual who wishes to join UMNO's cause.
When questioned about former UMNO Youth chief Khairy Jamaluddin's desire to return to UMNO, Ahmad Zahid confirmed that Khairy had approached him multiple times to express his interest. UMNO, he stated, is open to accepting anyone wishing to return without imposing conditions.
Meanwhile, UMNO Supreme Council member Datuk Mohd Razlan Muhammad Rafii emphasized the potential for UMNO to regain prominence in Malaysia's political arena if major Malay parties unite before the 16th General Election (GE16), aligning with Ahmad Zahid's recent appeal.
Mohd Razlan highlighted the significance of Ahmad Zahid's invitation to former members and all Malays to unite under Rumah Bangsa without conditions, something the Malay community has long anticipated. He also emphasized the importance of unity by referencing the political experiences of indigenous communities in other countries.
Earlier, Mohd Razlan, alongside Women Vision Entrepreneurs Association of Malaysia (Wawasanita) president Dr Norli @ Norlaili Alias and Sungai Panjang state constituency coordinator Datuk Mohd Imran Tamrin, distributed 500 new copies of the Quran to 40 mosques and surau throughout Sabak Bernam.