Strengthen the unity among party members and serve the people wholeheartedly were among the essences of the Umno president Najib Abdul Razak's message to Umno members, today.

Party supreme council member Razali Ibrahim said the messages were given as part of the party's strategies in facing various challenges of the 14th general election.

"The president noted that only unity and wholehearted service could address various challenges that were now being faced by the party," he said when met by reporters after the President's Message session, held in conjunction with the Umno general assembly at the Putra World Trade Centre, Kuala Lumpur.

Meanwhile, Umno information chief Annuar Musa said the president gave a clear signal that every member needs to always be ready in carrying out their duties to help winning the party during the coming election for the sake of religion, race and nation.

He said Najib, who is also the prime minister, had used the session to explain on his efforts in maintaining the biggest Malay party and improve the country's administration.

Puteri Umno chief Mas Ermieyati Samsudin saw the president's message as a pull factor for the Umno members to work even harder in defending the rights of the people.

"The president's message was directed specially for the Umno leaders as their responsibilities are getting heavier and we don't have any other choice other than to win the election," she added.

- Bernama