Unity comes first, says Akmal as he accepts Zahid , AB RAUF

Unity comes first, says Akmal as he accepts Zahid, Ab Rauf decision

KUALA LUMPUR: UMNO Youth chief Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh has said he will abide by and respect decisions made by the party’s top leadership, including UMNO president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Melaka UMNO liaison committee chairman Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh, stressing that party cohesion must take precedence over individual positions.

Dr Muhamad Akmal said UMNO’s longevity as a political organisation rests on internal discipline and collective responsibility, noting that leadership decisions are made within a broader framework that takes into account political realities and long-term party interests.

He acknowledged that differing views are inevitable within a large and diverse party, but said political maturity is reflected in the ability to accept final decisions once they have been made and to move forward in unison.

“Disagreement is part of any political process, but once a decision is concluded, it becomes a shared responsibility. What matters is how we implement it for the benefit of the party and the people it represents,” he said.

Addressing speculation surrounding his stance, Dr Muhamad Akmal rejected suggestions that his acceptance of the leadership’s decision was driven by pressure or internal compromise. Instead, he described it as a conscious choice rooted in responsibility and respect for party structures.

He added that decisions taken by Ahmad Zahid and Ab Rauf were not made in isolation, but involved careful consideration of various perspectives, including grassroots sentiment and organisational stability.

Dr Muhamad Akmal also cautioned party members against prolonging internal debates in the public domain, warning that unresolved polemics could erode public confidence and distract from more pressing priorities.

“Internal differences should be managed within the party. When disputes spill into the open, it weakens our ability to focus on rebuilding trust and strengthening our engagement with voters,” he said.

On UMNO Youth’s role, Dr Muhamad Akmal said the wing would continue to serve as a platform for younger members to voice their concerns, while working constructively with the senior leadership to ensure those views are channelled appropriately.

He said UMNO’s immediate focus should be on organisational renewal, grassroots outreach and policy relevance, rather than internal contestation.

“The party can only move forward if unity is preserved. At this stage, unity is not optional — it is essential,” he said.