CYBERJAYA: On seeing the fostering of goodwill among various political parties at the maiden unity government national convention, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi suggested a similar convention be held at the state level as well.
"I see there should be follow-up action. There should also be a state-level convention so that the grassroots can also participate not only to listen but to give diverse views, and we should open it up to the public to participate," he said.
The Umno president said the compatibility seen among the various political parties during Sunday's (May 14) convention, which was attended by more than 3,500 participants from the 19 parties that form the government, became one of the important elements to face the state elections later.
"Not only the leaders shared the same stage but representatives from various parties also listened and interacted with each other. What we will face later is the state polls, so this compatibility is important for us to continue promoting," he said.
Speaking to the media after attending the National Professors Council's (MPN) Hari Raya celebration here on Monday (May 15), Ahmad Zahid said the issue of pluralism is a reality in Malaysia, therefore the diversity of religion and culture should be respected to celebrate the differences between each other.
"We have to look at the reality of politics in terms of dynamics. We don't want to focus on a party or figure but we see the fact that this plurality must be recognised as something that cannot be avoided.
"We want to be a progressive country with political stability and at the same time, enjoy economic growth for the wellbeing of the people. This should be our goal," he said.
Commenting on the views of former Umno leader Tan Sri Annuar Musa who expects the party to suffer dire consequences due to the presence of "socialist" and "liberal" factions at the convention, Ahmad Zahid said: "I will never respect his personal opinion."
Annuar, through a post on his Facebook page, said the presence of various parties including socialists, liberals and the DAP at the convention would push many people, including Umno members, to leave and reject the party in the next election. - Bernama
