Analysts say move suggests attempt to improve position within Unity govt, but express qualms over genuine renewal
PETALING JAYA: The return of senior Umno figures, including Khairy Jamaluddin, Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein (pic) and Tan Sri Dr Syed Hamid Albar under the Rumah Bangsa narrative signals a calculated party reset ahead of the 16th general election (GE16), say analysts.
However, they are divided on whether it reflects genuine renewal or a consolidation of old power structures.
Universiti Malaya socio-political analyst Prof Datuk Dr Awang Azman Awang Pawi said the move points to more than internal rebuilding, suggestive of a broader attempt to reposition Umno within the Unity government.
“This reflects a two-layered strategy – internal reconciliation to strengthen party structures, and a recalibration of power to enhance its bargaining position within the unity coalition led by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.”
He pointed out that the return of high-profile figures could quietly reshape internal dynamics.
“A realignment of power within the party leadership is a real possibility. The return of prominent personalities may exert pressure on existing leaders – not through open confrontation but competition over legitimacy, influence and the party’s future direction.”
Awang Azman stressed that reintegration must be carefully managed to avoid internal friction.
“Without a clear transition period before these figures assume strategic roles or contest seats, tensions between long-standing loyalists and returning members could intensify,” he said, adding that a more assertive Umno could adopt an increasingly transactional approach within the Unity government, with stability hinging on political negotiations rather than formal arrangements, particularly in overlapping electoral contests.
International Islamic University Malaysia political analyst and Iseas–Yusof Ishak Institute fellow Assoc Prof Dr Syaza Shukri offered a more sceptical view, saying perceptions of reform have largely remained unchanged since the 2022 general election.
“People who voted for change didn’t vote for Umno. I don’t think it significantly alters views on reform. Voters already understood in 2022 that governing within a unity coalition would be difficult.”
She said the removal of certain Umno leaders stemmed more from internal disagreements than public pressure.
“These leaders were removed due to disagreements with Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, not because of voter sentiment.
“So, I don’t think it affects perceptions of reform. If anything, it reinforces the view that Umno is unlikely to change significantly.”
She said Umno’s internal reshuffle only deepens existing perceptions about its priorities.
“Reform has never been part of its language,” she said, adding that Umno appears more focused on political survival than transformation.
On the broader Unity government, she said credibility concerns extend beyond Umno.
“The loss of credibility was there from the start, and Zahid’s court cases being resolved the way they were only reinforced perceptions about political priorities.
“And now, Pakatan Harapan is facing its own controversies.”
She said voter behaviour has remained largely stable despite growing disillusionment.
“For voters, not much has changed. There is disillusionment but it has evolved rather than shifted dramatically.”
She added that Umno may now be in a relatively stronger strategic position within the coalition, not due to electoral gains but internal stabilisation and ongoing efforts to rehabilitate its image before GE16.
“I don’t think Umno or Barisan Nasional can win on its own or emerge as the largest coalition. But if the focus is on rebuilding its image, that in itself is already a ‘win’ for Umno.”
