Kuala lumpur: UMNO and Barisan Nasional (BN) have expressed their satisfaction with the ongoing cooperation among all component parties in the Unity Government, citing shared objectives and a commitment to serving the people's interests, according to Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, UMNO President Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi emphasized that the smooth cooperation seen within the Unity Government does not signify complacency. Rather, it highlights a robust understanding between the parties to prevent political polemics from burdening the people. In a recent special interview marking UMNO's 80th anniversary, Ahmad Zahid, who also serves as the Deputy Prime Minister, stressed the need to avoid prolonged disputes or differing stances that could trouble the citizens.
Ahmad Zahid, who is also the BN chairman, highlighted the importance of prioritizing the people's interests over political differences. He noted that all parties in the Unity Government have agreed to set aside political considerations to ensure the effective implementation of the 15th General Election (GE15) manifesto. The government is focusing on common ground within party manifestos, particularly concerning issues like the cost of living, education, and unemployment.
On the topic of education and unemployment, Ahmad Zahid pointed out that there is no disagreement among the competing parties. He also revealed that about 47 percent of the manifestos from parties within the Unity Government share common elements, thus creating a solid foundation for existing cooperation. He questioned the need for concern over differences when the ultimate goal is shared and mentioned the establishment of the Inter-Party Consultative Council to address detailed issues and ensure the manifesto's purposeful implementation.
Ahmad Zahid further emphasized that all component parties of the Unity Government, including DAP, adhere to the four main pillars enshrined in the Federal Constitution. These pillars include Islam, the Malay Rulers, the Malay language, and the special rights of the Malays. He stated that the comfort and respect for the Unity Government's agreement are evident and rooted in these constitutional pillars.
The Unity Government, led by Pakatan Harapan along with BN, Gabungan Parti Sarawak, Gabungan Rakyat Sabah, and Parti Warisan, was established after GE15 in 2022 when no coalition achieved a simple majority. It is supported by several other parties and independent Members of Parliament.