Tengku Razaleigh suggests BN become a single political entity

KOTA BARU: After calling for the formation of a national unity Federal Government with opposition parties, Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah has proposed that Barisan Nasional become a single political entity.

The veteran politician said he was ready to deal with Umno members who may reject the move, stating that although Barisan becomes a single political entity, the special rights of the Malays would be upheld in the Federal Constitution.

"There is nothing to fear as it benefits everyone," he said, adding that there was no need to amend the Constitution with regards to Islam being the official religion and Bahasa Malaysia the official language.

Tengku Razaleigh, the nation's longest serving parliamentarian and former finance minister, said he was open to discussion over a single Barisan party instead of the present 13 coalition partners system after the Sabah Progessive Party pulled out last month.

"I am suggesting that Barisan become a multi-racial party for all. Umno members can be direct members in it," he said in an interview.

He foresees the decline of Umno unless the party "is bold and willing to accept sweeping reforms."

He said Umno must change the people's perception of it.

"I do not think Umno can survive the next (general) election. People are simply going for material gains for themselves and their supporters."

"People are becoming more corrupt. This is not the purpose of the party. It is for serving the people and it must be in tip-top condition."