Umno Wanita chief Shahrizal Abdul Jalil has suggested that the concept of ‘ Kemuliaan Melayu ’ (Malay nobleness) was more relevant to the Malay community today compared to ‘ Ketuanan Melayu ’ (Malay supremacy).

“ Ketuanan Melayu was relevant once upon a time. But if we consider the political climate today, the concept which needs to be revived is Kemuliaan Melayu , or the nobility of the Malay community,” she said.

NONE Speaking to reporters after delivering her policy speech at the Umno Wanita annual general assembly before 795 delegates today, Shahrizat said that such a concept can help Umno regain its integrity and confidence from the public.

“If we look carefully, it is the noble characteristics of the Malays which had brought independence for Malaya and steered BN towards its achievements (seen) today,” she said.

In her speech, Shahrizat said the wing must return to the original struggle of Malay politics - duty, responsibility and public service.

She said that such values will instil respect for the Malay race and will serve as a guide for the future.

Meanwhile, Shahrizat said that she hoped Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak and his deputy Muhyiddin Yassin will consider the wing’s proposal to accept women as top party and government decision-makers.

She said that the wing is now 63 years old and now has the confidence to handle heavy-duty jobs. She added that because of this, she had taken the unprecedented step of setting goals for the wing.

“It is not about me... I’m only speaking on behalf of the Wanita leadership. If I don’t do this, I will feel that I’m not doing my duties,” she said.

Earlier in her speech, Shahrizat had urged the wing to get ready and pave the way for female menteris besar, chief ministers or Umno state liaison chiefs.

She added that this was not impossible, particularly under Najib’s “visionary” leadership.

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