Government-linked companies who were not ‘loyal' to Umno came under the scrutiny of several delegates during the debate on the presidential address.

NONE Kelantan delegate Noor Zahidi Omar claims that some Umno activists were victims of a glass ceiling imposed by GLC managers and were not supportive of the party.

Federal Territories delegate Yahaya Mat Ghani claims that some GLC board members, management and general staff were also supporting the opposition.

He also claims that some GLCs even allow opposition leaders to hold lectures at their premises.

"Thus, we suggest that a cleansing process be conducted. Only qualified Umno members who are steadfastly loyal to the party (should be appointed). This will ensure close ties between GLCs and Umno," he said.

Noor Zahidi further alleged that the GLCs were preoccupied with currying favour with the Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak.

As an example, Noor Zahidi said that GLCs were scrambling to distribute zakat (alms) during the Ramadan month at Najib's electorate in Pekan, Pahang.

"I thought to myself, how can there be a lot of poor people in the prime minister's area? He has been minister for many years. Thus, I think the job of the GLC is to bodek (curry favour with) the premier," said Noor Zahidi.

This remark was met by shouts of "betul (correct)" by the floor.

Discrimination favours no one

umno agm egm 151009 najib inspect delegates line up 03 "The prime minister (had better) be careful with these kaki bodek," warned Noor Zahidi, adding that the GLCs concerned did not distribute ramadhan alms in other areas.

He warned that should GLCs continue to behave in such a manner, Najib may be the sole winner in future elections as other constituencies are neglected.

Kedah delegate Md Rozai Shafian lamented that Umno does not make full use of government agencies at their disposal, but their rivals Pakatan Rakyat do so.

"In about six to seven months, they have shown the power which they wield in order to gain support from the people," said Md Rozai.

He said when Umno was governing the now Pakatan-held states, the party followed regulations but the current administrations were quick to bend the rules, such as in the awarding of permanent land titles in Perak.