‘Forever centrist’: Tok Mat insists Umno won’t veer left or right

KUALA LUMPUR, September 10 — Deputy President Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan of Umno, commonly known as Tok Mat, declared today that the party will steadfastly remain centrist and moderate. Refusing to veer either left or right, Mohamad emphasized that Umno's ideology is rooted in centrism, positioning the party as the national middle ground.

Speaking at the opening of the Wanita, Pemuda and Puteri Umno general assemblies, he reiterated, "My emphasis is that Umno will forever be centrist. Our ideology is centrism. Once again I repeat, Umno is a group and party of the middle and will forever follow the middle path."

He assured non-Malays and bumiputera in Sabah and Sarawak that Umno's commitment to Malay politics would not compromise their rights and interests. "The Malays will continue to serve as the 'indigenous nation,' providing space and opportunities for everyone," Mohamad stated, emphasizing that the party's vision is to ensure a fair and united Malaysia. "It will in no way become a burden or threat, nor deny your rights and interests."

Mohamad affirmed that Umno's approach is one of balance, integrating ideas from both sides while maintaining moderation. With decades of experience in governing the country through moderate policies, he sought to reassure that any desire to work with Umno necessitates acceptance of its centrist stance. "You cannot impose your conservative or radical ideology on Umno," he warned.

In essence, Mohamad's message to non-Malays and non-Muslim bumiputera in Sabah and Sarawak was clear: Umno remains dedicated to the welfare of all citizens, aiming for a peaceful coexistence where every community thrives together.