PAU 2025: Akmal’s resignation, Khairy’s return and Umno’s red lines

Описание: Here’s what happened today at the Umno General Assembly, which is ongoing at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur.

Khairy Jamaluddin’s return to the assembly and Datuk Dr Akmal Saleh’s announcement that he will resign as a Melaka state executive councillor were among the key developments.

Khairy, who made a surprise appearance — his first since 2023 — backed Umno Youth chief Akmal Saleh, saying Umno’s core principles, including on Islam, Malay rights and the Malay Rulers, must remain non-negotiable. Youth delegates also renewed calls for the party to reopen its doors to former leaders.

Akmal later announced he would step down as a Melaka exco next week, saying the move would allow him to represent grassroots concerns more freely and take a firmer stand against DAP.

Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi later described the resignation as a personal decision, saying he would meet Akmal for clarification, while Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh said he would await formal notification.

Umno Youth also issued a 24-hour ultimatum to Malaysiakini to apologise over what it said was inaccurate visual reporting of the assembly. Malaysiakini editors have said they will attend a meeting tomorrow.

Beyond Umno Youth, discussions across Wanita and Puteri Umno focused on coalition politics and internal renewal.

Wanita Umno chief Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad said Umno must accept coalition governments as the political reality, but stressed the party should remain a leading force and not merely follow. She also raised concerns over economic pressures, governance issues, and called for stronger digital engagement and political financing reform.

Puteri Umno, meanwhile, raised concerns about internal equity, saying young women were often sidelined in elections, and cautioned against coalition politics that could dilute Umno’s identity.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, proceedings begin at 7.30am with the flag-raising ceremony, followed by the official opening of the Umno General Assembly at 9am, including the policy speech by Umno president. Debates will continue in the afternoon.

For full coverage, analysis and live updates from the assembly, follow the New Straits Times on all our platforms.

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