THE recent controversy surrounding UMNO Youth chief Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh exposes his desperate need for attention.
His approach to politics, particularly his handling of the so-called “sock-gate” issue, is emblematic of a leader more interested in cheap publicity than responsible governance.
A mature and responsible UMNO youth leader would have handled the matter with wisdom and restraint. Instead, Akmal chose to inflame racial and religious sentiments for political mileage.
In contrast, PAS leadership demonstrated commendable restraint, prioritising the nation’s stability over political theatrics.
Akmal’s greatest enemy is himself. By engaging in divisive rhetoric, he has entangled himself in the volatile currents of Malaysian politics.
The tragic irony is that he sees himself as a heroic champion of the Malays but in reality, the Malay electorate has already shifted its support elsewhere – primarily towards PAS.
Once a dominant force, UMNO is now like a candle burning brightly before its inevitable extinction.
Disrespecting UMNO veteran
Beyond his misguided political stunts, Akmal’s lack of respect for senior leaders is appalling. His suggestion that former envoy Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazri Aziz be sent to Myanmar is nothing short of an insult.
Nazri who once represented Malaysia in Washington, DC, the world’s most powerful capital, deserves far more respect than Akmal seems willing to afford him.
While some may criticize Nazri for holding a placard bearing the acronym MAGA – “Make America Great Again” – during his tenure as ambassador, this act pales in comparison to Akmal’s divisive antics.
Nazri might have sought to align with the Trump administration but he never engaged in actions that stoked racial or religious tensions, unlike Akmal.
No matter how much Akmal tries to pander to the Malay electorate, the reality is clear: the political landscape has changed, and UMNO’s influence continues to wane.
With the Malays having moved on, no amount of grandstanding will bring them back.
I have known Nazri for many years, dating back to my time as the Batu Kawan MP. While I do not believe that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim should serve a second term, Nazri is entitled to his own opinion in supporting him.
Unfortunately, Anwar’s leadership has been more talk than action.
As for Akmal, his firebrand politics will soon fade into irrelevance. His tactics – once provocative – are now stale and uninspiring. The sooner he realises this, the better for both him and the future of Malaysian politics. – Feb 25, 2025
Former DAP stalwart and Penang chief minister II Prof Ramasamy Palanisamy is chairman of the United Rights of Malaysian Party (Urimai) interim council.
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Focus Malaysia.
