Umno needs new spirit, says Abdullah
10 May 2006
New Straits Times

KUALA LUMPUR: Umno president Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said a new spirit needs to be injected into Umno as it has been 60 years since the party’s inception.

In the last 60 years it was a fight to redeem the pride of the Malays.

"Now after 60 years, the challenges have changed. There are billions of ringgit available for the Malays to take opportunity of and progress in life," said Umno secretary- general Datuk Seri Mohd Rad- zi Sheikh Ahmad quoting Abdullah.

"He said it was time to inject a new spirit into the party in conjunction with the diamond jubilee celebration in Johor on Thursday.

"The PM said the Government is now led by Umno and the opportunities are given on a silver platter for the Malays to progress in life under the Ninth Malaysia Plan," said Radzi, who is also the Home Affairs Minister.

Radzi was speaking to reporters at the Tun Razak Hall, at PWTC, following a two-hour briefing by the Prime Minister. He said Abdullah’s message was like telling the Malays: "Here is the opportunity. Grab it."

Radzi said the PM also emphasised party unity. Other matters touched on included the decision to scrap the construction of the "scenic bridge".

Radzi said the decision was not a personal one by Abdullah but one that was decided at a Cabinet meeting.

"He told the members that the decision was taken after taking serious consideration of the advantages and disadvantages.

"The potential problems were weighed carefully. He said Malaysia would not be talking to Singapore on the bridge issue any more.

"He said if Singapore was interested they would have to come and talk to us."

Culture, Arts and Heritage Minister Datuk Seri Rais Yatim also said the Prime Minister touched on the price hike and its impact.

"He also touched on inflation and the need to maintain good relations between government agencies and the public."

Umno information chief Tan Sri Muhammad Muhammad Taib said Abdullah also touched on the pending electricity tariff increase.