GEORGE TOWN: Former prime minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi and former Umno president has urged party members to remain united and loyal to the leadership of current party president Datuk Seri Najib Razak.
He said only by remaining united and loyal to the president that the party could ensure that whatever services rendered would reach the people.
"And with that, the people can feel the sincerity of the services given by Umno, especially in fighting for the rights of the Malays, without sidelining the other races," he said in a his message to all Umno members ahead of the party's 71st anniversary celebration on Thursday.
Abdullah said Umno had over the past seven decades faced numerous crises, whether within or outside the party.
"However, thanks to the trust and the loyalty of party members, the party had managed to overcome all the crises with wisdom.
"Past crises should serve as a guidance for the party to continue to remain relevant for all times.
"The people's trust in Umno will only remain if the party is seen as sincere in fighting for the rights of all the people." he added.