Vocal defenders of Islam and the Malays no longer come from Umno, but rather from non-governmental organisations such as Perkasa, says former information minister Zainuddin Maidin.

This is because Umno members fear being considered as extremists or being considered irrelevant on the global stage, Zainuddin said in his blog posting today.

Zainuddin said although Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak has been successful in his efforts to promote the country’s image as a moderate Muslim country, there have been negative effects as a result of these efforts.

 

"Non-Muslims and Christian fanatics take the opportunity to exploit the moderation concept for their own interests," he said.

Zainuddin had earlier commented on Johor Umno Youth vice-chairperson Khairul Anwar Rahmat who said that the moderation concept was not suitable to be used when defending religion.

"While Malays and Islam are under pressure due to the moderation concept introduced by Najib, a brave voice has risen from the south (Johor) to show that the concept is not on the right track.

"Khairul has actually voiced out what is felt by the Malays and Muslims at the grassroots level," Zainuddin said.  

Adding that the moderation concept has led to Umno, as well as the Malays and Muslims to "concede defeat", he also cited Umno Youth chief Khairy Jamaluddin for being silent on the Oktoberfest beer festival and the dog patting event furore.

On Umno vice-president Hishammuddin Hussein's pledge that Umno would continue to uphold the rights of Islam, Malays and the rulers, Zainuddin said Muslims who are "aware" know the "falsehood and emptiness" of the pledge.

"Hishammuddin had pledged as such to control the government’s image, which is heading to ruins, as the Umno annual general meeting is just around the corner," he said.

Related stories

Pak Samad 'pained' by pro-gov't Friday sermons

Appeals Court recognises rights of transgenders

Mufti: SIS was consulted before fatwa issued

Why halal logo for mineral water?

Crackpots have taken over the government

Some don’t need a 'Stupidity Act' to act stupid