Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has urged Pas to “remove the DNA of betrayal” in its political conduct, in a sharp response to recent remarks made by Pas leadership.
Zahid’s comments came after Pas president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang, in his Minda Presiden column, called on Umno to reassess its political direction and “return to the right path” following its cooperation with Pakatan Harapan components PKR and DAP.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the launch of the National Social Policy Action Plan 2026–2030, Zahid said he had previously initiated efforts to unite Malay-Muslim political forces through Muafakat Nasional.
However, he claimed that trust had been broken in past political engagements.
“I was the one who initiated Muafakat Nasional. But their DNA is betrayal,” he said. “If that element of betrayal is removed, then perhaps cooperation can be considered again. If not, it is better to move on.”
His remarks reflect continuing tensions between the two parties despite previous attempts at political cooperation.
In his column, Hadi had criticised Umno for working with PKR and DAP under the Pakatan Harapan government, alleging that such alliances had weakened focus on Malay and Muslim interests.
The Marang MP also argued that Umno had compromised its original principles in exchange for political positions, by collaborating with what he described as liberal and secular parties.
The exchange highlights ongoing friction within Malaysia’s Malay-Muslim political landscape, with both parties continuing to trade accusations over past alliances and ideological direction.
