KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA January 15. 2026 (Life News Agency) – UMNO Youth chief Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh today announced his resignation as a member of the Melaka State Government Executive Council (EXCO), effective next week.
The dramatic announcement was made during his speech at the UMNO Youth General Assembly 2025 at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur, greeted with thunderous cheers and a standing ovation from the delegates.
Dr Akmal stressed that the decision was made to represent the anxieties of the grassroots, while emphasising that government positions are not the priority compared to dignity, principles, and the voice of the rank-and-file.
“To demonstrate that I am carrying the voice of the restless grassroots, I hereby resign from my position as EXCO of the Melaka State Government, effective next week,” he said in an emotional speech.
However, he denied that he would abandon the UMNO Youth struggle.
“For me, positions in government are not important! What is more important is dignity, principles, and the voice of the grassroots!” Dr Akmal asserted.
In a tone of warning, Dr Akmal targeted parties he claimed often influence or “pressure” the UMNO President and the Chief Minister.
“When I am no longer in the EXCO, I will fight you all the way! I will ensure that the dignity of UMNO Youth is not like yours — all talk but no results!” he said.
He further emphasised that the resignation was not about money or positions, but about responsibility and principles.
“If it were for money and positions, I would not let go of my EXCO post… But because of my responsibility, because of my principles, because of your dignity… I boldly declare that I am resigning as EXCO to fight them all the way!”
Dr Akmal also urged UMNO Youth members not to be intimidated and to continue defending the party’s dignity.
“Youth! Never be afraid! Because we stand today on principles and the dignity of UMNO, not merely for positions! Do not fear! Do not be intimidated! If I can do it, how much more can all of you here. We will fight, we will fight all the way! Insya-Allah, as long as I am here, the dignity of UMNO will remain protected.”
He also expressed gratitude to the Melaka Chief Minister, Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh, whom he called “the best brother I have ever had”.
“Datuk Seri is the best brother I have ever had… Allow me, Datuk Seri, to follow in your footsteps in defending the dignity of my comrades,” he said.
Dr Akmal remains as UMNO Youth chief and pledged to continue championing the party’s dignity.
The Melaka Chief Minister, Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh, is reported to be waiting for the official resignation letter before making any decision.
The announcement is seen as closely linked to internal tensions within the Unity Government, particularly calls from certain quarters for UMNO to take a firmer stance against DAP.
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