Stay bold, stay relevant, Tok Mat tells Umno Youth [WATCH]

By NST in January 15, 2026 – Reading time 2 minute

KUALA LUMPUR: Umno Youth must reclaim its role as the “people’s hero” and position itself as a visible, constructive force within the political landscape, Umno deputy president Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan said.

Speaking at the opening of the party’s Youth, Wanita and Puteri general assemblies, Mohamad urged Umno Youth chief Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh to act decisively, describing him as a “constructive rebel” within the government.

However, Mohamad said that courage must be balanced with responsibility, noting that the youth wing is expected to scrutinise policies, challenge initiatives that may disadvantage the Malay community and put forward practical solutions on youth employment, economic opportunities and quality of life.

“I know Akmal and Pemuda have raised the rakyat’s issues at recent conventions. Some may label them as impudent. I disagree. Their role is to be bold, rebellious and serve as an emergency bell,” he said.

Mohamad said the youth wing would play a central role in translating policy discussions into tangible outcomes for Malaysians.

He said key initiatives include strengthening protection for gig economy workers and expanding technical and vocational education and training (TVET) to equip young Malaysians with future-ready, high-paying skills.

Mohamad also called on the party’s digital and Puteri wings to embrace “creative disruption” by leveraging technology and social media platforms to better engage younger voters, particularly Generation Z and Generation Alpha.

He said stronger online and grassroots engagement would help reshape public perception of Umno as a party that listens, adapts and delivers practical results.

On governance, Mohamad said Umno’s influence within the coalition government remains substantive, citing the party’s role in protecting Malay land rights from urban development policies, delaying controversial local council elections and ensuring economic institutions such as Majlis Amanah Rakyat (Mara), Tekun Nasional and Perbadanan Usahawan Nasional Bhd (PUNB) continue to support Bumiputera entrepreneurs.

“This is how Umno demonstrates its relevance — not merely through rhetoric, but through measurable actions that directly impact people’s lives,” he said.

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