Kuala lumpur: UMNO's Rumah Bangsa initiative has opened its doors unconditionally, embracing the concept of "forgive and forget" to foster unity within the party and strengthen the Malay race's struggle. According to BERNAMA News Agency, UMNO Supreme Council member Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Maslan described the initiative as a noble effort to unify and bolster the party's mission. He emphasized that no conditions are imposed on those wishing to return to the party, highlighting that individuals need not apologize as part of the rejoining process. Ahmad Maslan, also a Rumah Bangsa Committee member, stressed that the decision to return is entirely up to the individuals, as the party now welcomes back former members who were sacked, suspended, or previously left. UMNO president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi recently announced the initiative, stating that the party is open to former members returning without preconditions. Ahmad Maslan recalled the 1996 event when Parti Melayu Semangat 46 members were readmitted t o UMNO unconditionally, illustrating the long-standing practice of reconciliation within the party. Ahmad Maslan, also the Pontian Member of Parliament, connected the Rumah Bangsa initiative to the spirit of Ramadan, which emphasizes forgiveness. He suggested that former members might have recognized past mistakes, and the initiative aims to forget past grievances to strengthen the party. In Kuala Lumpur, UMNO vice-president Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin praised the initiative as a recognition that UMNO is not merely a political entity but a crucial support for the Malay race's survival. He asserted that UMNO serves as a 'big house' for the Malay race, emphasizing its integral role in connecting colonialism with independence and advancing the nation. Former UMNO Youth chief Khairy Jamaluddin Abu Bakar has expressed interest in rejoining the party through the Rumah Bangsa initiative.