Zainuddin Maidin has retaliated to Cheras Umno division chief Syed Ali Alhabshee, saying the latter fails to understand and appreciate criticism.

Responding to a Malaysiakini report today, the former information minister said his intention was to show that Umno leaders, especially in Cheras, are not in touch with the people.

"So it comes as no surprise if the people reject Umno if such leaders are in abundance in the party. My writing was simple and easy to understand," he added.

Zainuddin, who is popularly known as Zam, denied claiming that the songket worn by Umno leaders at the Cheras division anniversary bash was worth between RM5,000 and RM30,000.

"But usually the 'contest for wearing the most expensive songket ' happens at Umno general assemblies. This is known by Umno members.

"This is not important but the negative impression that the (Cheras) event gave to the public," he added in his blog today.

Zainuddin, who was also the former group editor-in-chief of Utusan Melayu Bhd, also took offence with Syed Ali's remark that he "memakan duit" (lived off taxpayers' money) when he was minister, describing it as a cheap shot.

Responding to Zainuddin, the Umno chief said he and a few leaders only wore cheap "kain songket" made in Pakistan at the celebration.

He claimed that the cloth was even sponsored and needed no more than RM60 for tailoring.

Umno leader: Zam, we used cheap songket