PAS has challenged the United Malay National Organisation (Umno) to stop using its English name and switch to the Malay version - Pertubahan Kebangsaan Melayu Bersatu (Pekembar).

NONE According to PAS state deputy commissioner Mohammad Nizar Jamaluddin ( left ), most rural Malays and even many of the party's members, do not know what the English acronym stands for.

Nizar argued that if Umno is fighting for the Malay community and its language and culture, then the party's name should not be in English.

"It should use the Malay version to reflect its political agenda," pointed out the former Perak menteri besar.

He alleged that Umno was a racist party and was being hypocritical by using an English name to promote the Malay culture and language.

Nizar was speaking at a ceremah recently at Kampung Batu Enam, Selama in Perak.

He also questioned why the learning of the Jawi script was removed from the education system.

"As a result, the majority of Malays especially the younger generation, do not know it. This is a loss as it makes it easier to learn the Quran and other religious scriptures that are in Arabic."

He claimed that Umno even after 53 years is still fighting only for the Malays, whereas PAS fights for the rights of all Muslims and now also for non-Muslims.