Speech of PM, govt in waiting, says KJ of Zahid’s Umno address

Khairy Jamaluddin hailed Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi’s keynote address at the party’s general assembly today, labelling it a speech of a “prime minister in waiting”.

“It is also a speech of a government in waiting,” the former Umno Youth chief told reporters.

Khairy, who was making his first appearance at the general assembly after officially returning to the party’s fold, was asked for his impression of Zahid’s address.

Earlier today, Zahid called for the goods and services tax (GST) to be reintroduced at a more reasonable rate as part of a proposed “Malaysia Blue Agenda”, aimed at reshaping the country’s economic priorities, which Barisan Nasional and its partners would pursue if given the opportunity to lead the country again.

He also took a veiled swipe at Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, saying Umno could do better than the leader he referred to as “guru” (teacher), and urging him to listen to the people.

Separately, former Umno vice-president Hishammuddin Hussein said the future direction of Umno and BN hinged on the leadership’s ability to inspire a comeback and emerge stronger.

He said every party went through ups and downs and Umno was no exception.

“When we were on top we were embraced, praised and supported. But when we fell eight years ago, we were ridiculed, attacked and slandered.

“And as the president said, it was a lesson that strengthened our resolve,” he said.

He said it is now up to the leadership to steer the party to greater heights.

Meanwhile, Umno stalwart Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah welcomed Zahid’s message for members to close ranks, including for former members to return to its fold.