KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA March 6, 2026 – In a move aimed at fostering unity and reconciliation, United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) President Dato’ Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi announced today that the party is opening its doors to former members and individuals interested in joining, without any preconditions. The initiative, framed in the spirit of the holy month of Ramadan, seeks to strengthen the party’s ranks and heal past divisions.
The statement, released on Zahid’s official X account, emphasizes self-reflection, relationship repair, and brotherhood during Ramadan Al-Mubarak. “UMNO sees this as the best time to reconnect the party’s ties of struggle,” the statement reads, highlighting the opportunity for renewal.
Key points from the media statement include:
– Party Strength Beyond Structure : Zahid noted that a political party’s success relies not only on organizational framework but also on the support, endorsement, and unity of all members at every level.
– Amnesty for Expelled and Suspended Members : The party is extending an invitation to any former members who were previously expelled or had their memberships suspended, as well as any individuals aligned with UMNO’s struggle, to rejoin or join anew without barriers.
– Forgiveness in Ramadan’s Mercy : Embracing the month’s themes of rahmat (mercy) and keampunan (forgiveness), all past mistakes and differences will be fully pardoned to open a new chapter for UMNO’s “big family.”
– Coordination Process.: The Rumah Bangsa (House of the Nation) Committee, chaired by Datuk Seri Haji Mohamed Khaled bin Nordin, will immediately oversee the process in line with UMNO’s constitution.
– Broader Goals : The effort is intended to bolster the party’s commitment to religion, race, and homeland, ensuring a brighter future for the Malaysian people and nation.
Zahid, who also serves as Malaysia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Rural and Regional Development, signed the statement dated March 6, 2026. The announcement comes at a time when UMNO, a key component of the Barisan Nasional coalition, continues to navigate Malaysia’s dynamic political landscape following recent elections and alliances.
Early reactions on social media have been mixed, with some users expressing enthusiasm for potential party revitalization, while others question the timing and implications. One reply to the post humorously noted, “on the way boss,” accompanied by a video clip.
This development could signal a strategic push for UMNO to consolidate its base ahead of future political challenges, particularly in promoting Malay unity amid ongoing national discussions on governance and economic policies.
For the full statement, view the original post on X.
