'Toxic politics further divides Malay electorates'

UMNO AGM | The Malay political landscape is witnessing the emergence of "toxic politics" on an extraordinary scale that further divides the Malay electorates, according to Umno deputy president Mohamad Hasan.

Not only that, Mohamad said the sanctity of Islam is also being “hijacked” by certain groups who only consider themselves to be true Muslims.

"We are witnessing the emergence of 'toxic politics' on an extraordinary scale. It is manifested with all forms of slander, hatred and outrageous slurs.

"In the last general election, we witnessed the emergence of 'political hate speech' which was unprecedented.

"Social media has become an arena for the revolution that highlights this 'toxic politics', filled with hatred and contempt," he said in his speech to open the Wanita, Youth and Puteri wings general assembly at Dewan Merdeka, World Trade Centre in Kuala Lumpur.

Also present were Umno wing leaders - Wanita chief Noraini Ahmad, Youth chief Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh and Puteri chief Nurul Amal Mohd Fauzi.

Mohamad further said “toxic politics” has affected the whole world and Malaysia is no exception.

He said based on his observations, politics that is mature, polite, thoughtful and based on the best ideas have died in Malaysia’s political scene.

He added that “toxic politics” would inflict serious damage on the political cultures of the Malays.

"In fact, it has regressed the standard and political ethics of the Malay race to the lowest level.

"Umno's future depends on our effectiveness in fighting 'toxic politics'," he added.

Islam ‘hijacked’

The Rembau MP also expressed his sadness when Islam in Malaysia appears to have been “hijacked” by certain groups.

"There are political groups in this country who feel that Islam is their sole possession, thinking only they have the knowledge to judge what is Islamic and what is not Islamic.

"What is more dangerous, anyone who is not with them is seen as threatening Islam, or failing to support Islam," he said without mentioning any group.

He added that the group has used Islam to divide the Malays in this country, and worse, increased the rejection of non-Muslims towards Islam.

"If Islam continues to be 'captured' as it is treated by certain political groups in this country, then Islam will be threatened," he said.

The 2024 Umno General Assembly continues tomorrow with keynote speeches by Wanita, Youth and Puteri chiefs.

Nenggiri victory a start of long journey to regain support - Mohamad

Mat Hasan: Gen Z, millenials key to Umno's future

Zahid eyes election victories at Umno AGM briefing

Umno pledges to ensure UiTM remains for Malays, bumiputera - Zambry