Umno veteran Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah is contemplating contesting the party's presidency in its upcoming polls.

Admitting that the post comes with great responsibility, Tengku Razaleigh said he needed more time to think it through before making any decision for the sake of the party following its huge loss in the recent general election.

“Losing the election does not mean that the party is weak. It is still strong and has the support from the people,” he told reporters after chairing Gua Musang Umno’s monthly meeting last night.

Tengku Razaleigh, 81, who is also Gua Musang Umno chief and MP, said what was more important was to protect Article 153 of the Federal Constitution related to the rights of the Malays.

He said the people need not to worry as Umno would be led wisely, and that the voices of the Malays would continue being heard.

He also expressed hope that Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad would get cooperation from all quarters in administering the country.

- Bernama