FIVE PILLARS TO GUIDE MUSYAWARAH NASIONAL, SAYS AHMAD ZAHID

KUALA LUMPUR, April 1 (Bernama) -- Five key pillars covering religion, politics, economy, education and social aspects will form the focus of the Musyawarah Nasional in shaping the strategic direction of the Malay community and the nation’s future.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the gathering is not merely a discourse, but a collective effort to find common ground, formulate solutions and build national consensus in addressing current challenges.

Ahmad Zahid, who is also the founder of Musyawarah Nasional and UMNO president, said the initiative encompasses various aspects relating to the interests of Islam, society, the economy, education and Malay politics.

He said the musyawarah, announced during the UMNO General Assembly 2025, is chaired by Tan Sri Abdul Ghani Othman, who has extensive experience in government administration and the corporate sector, including as Youth and Sports Minister, Johor Menteri Besar, and chairman of Sime Darby Berhad and Johor Corporation.

“The Religion pillar is chaired by Datuk Prof Dr Mohd Izhar Ariff Mohd Kashim, focusing on strengthening Islam’s position as the religion of the Federation as well as enhancing a moderate and progressive understanding and practice of Islam in society.

“The Political pillar, chaired by Prof Dr Zainal Abidin Sanusi, will assess current political dynamics and formulate new approaches to ensure political stability, leadership continuity and democratic maturity,” he said in a Facebook post today.

Ahmad Zahid said the Economic pillar is led by Tan Sri Syed Zainal Abidin Syed Mohamed Tahir Jamalullail to formulate more competitive and inclusive Malay economic strategies.

Meanwhile, the Education pillar is chaired by Datuk Seri Prof Dr Noor Inayah Ya’akub, which will examine efforts to strengthen human capital and future generations.

“The Social pillar will be chaired by Datuk Prof Dr Mohammad Shatar Sabran, focusing on social well-being, community unity, values and cultural development, as well as strengthening family and community institutions,” he said.

Ahmad Zahid also expressed confidence that the involvement of credible figures and participation from various groups, including academics, community leaders, professionals, youth and non-governmental organisations would produce constructive, realistic and forward-looking outcomes.

“I call on all parties to participate and contribute views openly, maturely and responsibly so that the Musyawarah Nasional can serve as an important platform in strengthening unity, empowering the national agenda and building a more prosperous Malaysia,” he said.

-- BERNAMA