KUALA LUMPUR – Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi today urged leaders of youth wings in political parties to welcome diverse opinions and be open to constructive criticism.
The Deputy Prime Minister, who, along with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, has held leadership roles in UMNO Youth, highlighted that youth leaders often have contrasting ideals and perspectives, Bernama reported.
“Young people naturally have different ideals, and when they express differing views or opinions, these should be welcomed as part of a healthy exchange of ideas,” Zahid said after delivering the 2026 New Year’s message to staff of the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA) today.
He further explained that while youth frequently offer critical remarks, it is important that they also accept criticism in return. “We should not label others as undemocratic or unwilling to accept the truth,” he added.
Zahid was responding to a media report in which Umno Youth chief Datuk Dr Akmal Saleh hinted at his resignation, following his statement that he might have reached the point where stepping down was necessary.
Zahid advised that neither Dr Akmal nor any youth leader in a political party should resort to drastic actions or shortcuts when disagreements arise over certain issues.
“We should not look for shortcuts when others do not agree with us. Politics is a struggle, and we must recognise that not everyone will share our views. Disagreements should be resolved through explanation and dialogue, not through other means,” Zahid remarked.
While not commenting directly on Dr Akmal’s situation, Zahid emphasised that youth leaders should uphold their idealism, regardless of whether their views are accepted. He encouraged resolving differences through proper channels.
When asked if Umno would consider accepting Dr Akmal’s resignation, Zahid replied: “I have never thought about it.”
Dr Akmal had hinted at stepping down after his proposal for the party to leave the Unity Government in favour of closer ties with PAS under the Muafakat Nasional (MN) framework was rejected by Umno’s leadership.
On Facebook, Akmal expressed gratitude for the support he had received but acknowledged that he might have shortcomings. He wrote, “Perhaps it is time to step aside. Thank you to all of you who care about this struggle. I believe if our intentions are good, for the religion, race, and country, the time will come.”
Akmal had called for Umno to exit the Unity Government and form a ‘constructive opposition’ with PAS at the Umno Youth Special Convention on January 3. However, his proposal was not adopted by the party leadership, and Zahid reaffirmed that UMNO would remain in the Unity Government until the next general election. – January 8, 2026