KUCHING: The United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) has announced that its general assembly, scheduled for June 9, will be a platform to prepare for the upcoming state elections across six states.
Political analyst Professor James Chin has shared insights into the anticipated outcomes of the assembly. He said that the primary objective of the assembly would be to energise UMNO members and garner support for the impending state elections.
“In light of the approaching state elections, UMNO president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi is likely to utilise the party congress to rally the party members and equip them for the forthcoming state elections,” he told New Sarawak Tribune yesterday (June 4).
The presence of Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) Chairman Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, who also serves as the Premier of Sarawak, contributes to the collaborative atmosphere within the coalition.
However, Chin believes that Abang Johari’s attendance, while noteworthy, follows a long-standing tradition and does not indicate any significant shift in the political landscape.
“The only new thing is that he will hold a new title as Premier of Sarawak, rather than Sarawak Chief Minister,” he added.
Additionally, Chin observed that UMNO, under the leadership of Ahmad Zahid, appears to be firmly in control of the assembly.
Meanwhile, he highlighted the anticipated attendance of former UMNO member Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who was previously expelled from the party in 1998, is expected to attend as the guest of honour, adding historical significance to the assembly.
“That aspect is more historic than Abang Johari attending the assembly,” he added.
