Don't undermine new polls rules, members told

Umno president Najib Razak has warned party members not to exploit the party's new election procedure.

He said that although the new system was stricter, it was to spur party members towards change.

"If we want to change people, it's difficult. So we create a stricter systemso that the people will change. God willing, they will become better.

"But don't ever try to undermine or exploit the new system. We are serious about this. Don't, because if you try, you will have to face the consequences," he said in his closing speech at the Umno General Assembly here today.

The prime minister said that the new election method required party members to change and portray Umno as a party of integrity and supported by the people.

"When the people look at Umno, they see that the party is serious about helping them, about championing their cause. I want Umno to be the champion of the people," he said.

He also said that Umno was now ready for change based on the tremendous spirit displayed by the delegates during the four-day assembly.

"This is among the best general assemblies I attended since 1976. We have just gone through a huge challenge. During the past one year I was feeling uneasy, thinking whether party members had recovered from the setback.

Umno is ready for battle

"I was concerned whether they have risen or not? Whether they have realised or not? But today, as I stand before you, all by doubts disappear.

"I dare say that Umno at this moment is ready to rise, and to rise with greater strength," he said.

He said that to ensure Umno regain its strength, party members and leaders should discard negative attitudes.

Change needed not be costly, he added.

"If you want to change from being lazy to hardworking, arrogant to humble, you can do this without any allocation.

"Are you prepared to change? Are you prepared to work? To get close to the people and serve them?" he asked the delegates, who responded by a resounding "Yes" to each of the questions.

Najib then told them that Umno was indeed ready.

"Hear the call. Let us rise and propagate Umno. Let's strengthen our resolve and fight to the end. God willing, Umno will become strong and successful."

- Bernama