I refer to Malaysiakini report, Umno on road to reform, vows Najib.

This is completely different from the usual rhetoric laced with racial overtones uttered at Umno AGMs. The prime minister has set the path for a change in thinking by his ‘1Malaysia’ plan and I think more delegates in Umno during this assembly would support this plan for a change of thought to be more tolerant and show greater acceptance of other Malaysians in the country.

It has become a ‘do or die’ situation for BN and Umno. Change and reform has to come right now. No more glamorous speeches and acts of heroism for race or religion. We are all here to stay and we need to work together to progress as a nation of tolerance, acceptance and unity.

The new and vigorous team of Umno leaders including the PM know very well that promoting national interests rests on every one of us Malaysians and even a small cog has a part and role to play to move the nation towards greater progress and prosperity.

Now what is expected from this enterprising team is to implement these ideas and aspirations of the party without any fear or favour. Corruption, an ugly and destructive force, has to be eradicated at the high levels which comprises of those chosen and elected to represent the rakyat.

No more cover-ups or selecting a person whose character is questionable or who does not have the dynamism and prudence to implement the set policies. There also needs to be more accountability and transparency in the way the country is managed and how the funds are being used.

If Umno can lead the way by making bold and strong changes towards a more clean and trustworthy governance, there is ample opportunity for them to retain their control of the Malaysian political scene for yet another term or maybe even terms.

BN's coalition partners are also expected to work in tandem with Umno for the implementation of policies that guarantee a fair and just distribution of the country's wealth.

If any BN component party is not willing to change or reform itself, it should be sidelined or removed to make way for another party which can be seen to serve its community better. No more adhering to traditional rules to maintain inept and old leaders just for the sake of party unity. Bear in mind, desperate reforms need desperate actions.

It is hoped that this time that Umno will walk the talk and not just make flowery speeches. The speeches by Umno delegates are seen as the aspirations of the PM's ‘1Malaysia’.

If the results are not forthcoming soon, we can then consider it to be just empty promises.

I consider it very commendable for Umno to see its mistakes and work towards correcting these past abuses of power and authority. Compare this to the MIC which blames everyone else except itseslf.

It may just be the dawning of a new political era in Malaysia.