KUALA LUMPUR: Umno’s return to power with the Prime Minister’s post held by Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob is not because of its own strength alone, but the support given by Perikatan Nasional and other allies, says Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.

       The Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu) president said this support will remain if Umno keeps its word and adheres to terms and conditions set when Perikatan was formed.

       “As long as these terms are met, we will continue to support them until it is time for the next general election,” he said at Bersatu’s annual general meeting here yesterday.

       Muhyiddin reminded leaders from other political parties, mainly Umno, to respect Perikatan which comprises Bersatu, PAS, Gerakan, Sabah STAR and Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP), as well as its allies in Sarawak, including Gabungan Parti Sarawak.

       “Therefore, I ask certain quarters in Umno to show some respect, ‘jangan mudah lupa diri’ (don’t forget easily),” he said in reference to concerns raised by Bersatu members on the direction of the party after Umno’s announcement that it would not be working with Bersatu in the next general election.

       Earlier, the former prime minister urged Bersatu members to recall the basis for the formation of the party five years ago.

       He said Bersatu was formed when the country faced one of its darkest moments, with “kleptocrats within the government” and the 1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB) scandal.

       He added that voters now will constantly scrutinise politicians on their actions, besides wanting to know whether socio-economic benefits, education and employment opportunities were available for youth.

       Muhyiddin said voters are keeping track of the service rendered in terms of healthcare, welfare, aid during a disaster, as well as how the nation handles the Covid-19 pandemic.

       The values held by leaders, how they go about their duties and whether they are just, responsible, truthful and honest, are other important aspects that must not be overlooked, he added.

       He said these main aspects are what makes or breaks a party.

       In efforts to strengthen Bersatu, Muhyiddin said a new wing called Srikandi Muda will be formed to attract more young women to the party.

       He also said Perikatan will not form an alliance with Pakatan Harapan in the 15th General Election.

       This is because Perikatan and Pakatan have their differences, he added.

       Muhyiddin said an alliance will only be considered if Pakatan undergoes a major revamp or reshuffle.