UMNO vice-president Mohamed Khaled urges Bersatu members to return, citing the need for a single, strong platform to champion Malay unity and interests.

JOHOR BAHRU: UMNO vice-president Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said the party’s doors remain open for Bersatu members and leaders to return.

He stressed the move would strengthen Malay unity, negating the need for forming another new political party.

“Return to UMNO. I hope that the Malays can reunite under one platform, as continued division does not serve Malay interests,” he told reporters after a community event here.

“We need to unite under a single platform to fight for Malay interests, and ensure that the Malays remain strong in facing various challenges.”

Mohamed Khaled, who chairs the party’s Penyatuan Rumah Bangsa Committee, said the internal crisis within Bersatu reflects the fragility of the UMNO splinter party.

He added that the situation has affected the stability of Perikatan Nasional (PN), raising public questions over confidence in the coalition.

The Defence Minister said the crisis gives the impression of a struggle for positions rather than a fight to address people’s needs.

He noted that while some believe now is an appropriate time for elections, the final decision rests with party leadership to assess all factors.

Bersatu recently expelled 17 members, including several Supreme Leadership Council leaders, four MPs and two assemblymen, for violating the party constitution.

They can submit an appeal within 14 days.

UMNO Supreme Council member Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan said yesterday that applications from Bersatu members to rejoin must first be referred to the council.

 The Sun Malaysia