KUALA LUMPUR June 10, 2026 — UMNO has reaffirmed its commitment to backing the federal Unity Government until the 16th General Election (GE16), while emphasising its independence in deciding alliances for upcoming state polls in Johor and Negeri Sembilan.
The decision was announced following the party’s Supreme Working Council (MKT) meeting held last night, chaired by UMNO President and Deputy Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
In a media statement posted by Dr Zahid on X (formerly Twitter), the council outlined five key resolutions:
- UMNO will continue to support the Unity Government formed after the 15th General Election under the directive of the 16th Yang di-Pertuan Agong until the next national polls.
- Johor state government is not bound by the federal Unity Government agreement, as it was formed prior to the coalition and without involvement from Pakatan Harapan parties.
- UMNO reserves the right to determine its political stance and direction ahead of any election, including the forthcoming state elections in Johor and Negeri Sembilan, whose dates will be set by the Election Commission.
- Defending state mandates is not a betrayal of the federal government but a legitimate, mature, and constitutional democratic practice to hand the full mandate back to the people.
- UMNO remains open to any form of cooperation with any party for the sake of national political stability and the people’s welfare, provided it is based on sincerity and trust.
The statement was also shared by UMNO Secretary-General Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki, who stressed that the resolutions were made at the MKT meeting held at Menara Dato’ Onn, World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur.
The move comes amid speculation about realignments ahead of state elections and GE16. Johor has long been considered a UMNO stronghold, with the party securing a strong victory in the last state polls. The resolutions appear aimed at clarifying UMNO’s position amid rumours of potential cooperation with other parties, including hints of openness toward Perikatan Nasional components.
Analysts see this as UMNO asserting its autonomy while maintaining federal stability, a delicate balancing act in Malaysia’s complex multi-party landscape.
Reactions on social media have been mixed, with supporters praising the focus on stability and democracy, while some critics question the party’s long-term intentions.
About The Author
