KUALA LUMPUR: A PKR leader today described Umno as a partner in the struggles within the context of the unity government.
"Whether it's Umno or DAP, some point to DAP, and others to Umno… I am taking this approach and not apologetic about it – they are our partners in the struggle within the unity government's context.
"Why can't we adopt such an approach, which is reasonable in the context of fulfilling the mandate given to us (to be the government)," said PKR secretary-general Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution in the latest episode of the "Keluar Sekejap" podcast hosted by Khairy Jamaluddin and Shahril Hamdan.
Saifuddin was responding to Khairy's question on the perception that the government is being burdened or hindered by Umno under president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi's leadership, likening it to having an "albatross around your neck".
When pressed further by Khairy, who suggested that this could lead to a defeat for Pakatan Harapan (PH) in the next election, Saifuddin replied, "There will always be risks. We have faced this since 1999. We allied with DAP, which led to PAS leaving. Yet, we remain."
Khairy then noted, "But today, DAP provides an advantage (to the coalition) with more than 50 seats."
To which Saifuddin agreed, "Correct. Through thick and thin, sink or swim."
Saifuddin then continued, "An individual named (Datuk Seri) Anwar Ibrahim has taught us the 'kalau berkawan, berkawan' (the importance of loyalty in friendship).
"I was once part of Barisan Nasional (BN). Back then, the heads of the 13 component parties always agreed wholeheartedly with whatever Umno decided.
"However, in this cooperation (PH-BN), it's a real test of your talent. We put everything on the table and we argue and debate. It's something different from before.
"I don't want to describe it (referring to Umno) as a burden. Even if Umno is a burden, it has advantages too. At the very least, it contributes 30 seats," said Saifuddin.
