Ibrahim mocks Umno Youth for harping on 'safe issues'

Putra president Ibrahim Ali mocked Umno Youth for only voicing out on “safe issues” like flag blunders and socks having the word “Allah” printed on them, but remaining silent on scandals plaguing the government.

The former MP said Umno Youth should emulate its past leaders such as Harun Idris and Syed Jaafar Albar in courageously voicing out about issues affecting public interest.

“Currently, Umno Youth’s courage is limited to issues outside of the government, such as those insulting Islam and Malays, and matters such as placing the national flag upside down.

“However, when it comes to issues affecting the government’s integrity, such as corruption, justice, and the economy… Umno Youth is quiet,” Ibrahim said in a statement today.

Recently, Umno Youth chief Dr Akmal Saleh was questioned by Bukit Aman following his recent Jalur Gemilang rally outside a hardware store in Penang, following the shop owner’s mistake in placing the national flag upside down.

The Merlimau assemblyperson insisted the gathering was held peacefully and aimed to send a clear message that Malaysians will not tolerate disrespect toward the national symbol.

“We came not to create chaos but to deliver a message that thousands of Malaysians are unhappy when the national emblem is mocked.

“We dispersed peacefully. This proves we are not bullies, nor did we come to cause trouble,” Akmal said.

Ibrahim then listed out several issues which he felt Umno Youth should champion, such as:

1. The littoral combat ship scandal, where the government is still awaiting the ships despite billions of ringgit being paid out.

2. Pensioners who are still awaiting pension arrears worth about RM1.7 billion despite the court backing their case.

3. Rampant cases of corruption, cronyism, and abuse of power which is affecting democracy.

4. Rising cost of living, with taxes being increased despite wage stagnation.

5. Lack of reforms on issues such as upgrading the syariah courts, separating the office of the public prosecutor from the Attorney-General’s Chambers, and placing the MACC under Parliament.

Take on real issues

Ibrahim said Umno Youth should act as a check and balance mechanism to the government, like what Harun and Syed Jaafar did during their leadership.

He added that issues like the flag gaffe and socks could be left to NGOs for further action.

“Only leaders who champion real issues affecting the rakyat will be remembered throughout the ages, not those who speak out on ‘safe issues’.

“And I’m not apologetic or feel guilty for saying this, as I mean well,” Ibrahim added.

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