UMNO AGM | Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi should make himself clearer about the direction in which the party is heading, particularly on whether it plans to form a unity government with PAS and Pakatan Harapan parties.

Former Umno Youth chief Khairy Jamaluddin said this after listening to Zahid's two-hour speech at the party's annual general assembly at the Putra World Trade Centre in Kuala Lumpur yesterday.

"You said previously that we should fight the cruel Harapan government. Then you came out with a statement saying we were exploring opportunities via a JV (joint venture).

"You have to be clear as to which way you are leading the party," he said.

Umno and PAS have been solidifying their ties after the last general election, as evidenced in their cooperation during the Sungai Kandis and Seri Setia by-elections.

Earlier this week, Zahid said he would be open to forming a unity government with any Harapan party.

Umno Youth delegates appeared to be uneasy with Zahid's plans, following the lead of Youth chief Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki, who said yesterday that he objected to “backdoor attempts” to return to power.

Last night, Zahid reiterated Umno is still open with working with any party, but would not sacrifice its principles in the process.

When spoken to on the sidelines of the assembly, Umno deputy president Mohamad Hasan took a different stance from Khairy.

"Our priority is to strengthen, transform and reform the party. But if there is any opportunity (to form a unity government), why not?"

Explaining his previous statement where he was reported saying he objected to backdoor entry politics, Mohamad said, "What I said that night was 'hostile' backdoor entry into politics.

"But if it opens doors, why not?"