PETALING JAYA: Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has urged leaders from all political parties to close rank and stand united in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic.

His statement comes following Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah’s decision not to declare a state of emergency at this point in time.

“Umno expresses its gratitude to His Majesty and the Malay Rulers for their wisdom and discernment in handling the country’s political turmoil.

“In line with the decree and expectation by the King and Umno’s desire for a political ceasefire, I hope that all the leaders of the political parties at all levels will close ranks and to give their attention to fight the Covid-19 pandemic, for the wellbeing of the rakyat, ” he said in a statement on Sunday (Oct 25).

He added that the whole episode regarding the declaration of emergency has shown that the intention by the government to implement any major measure must go through discussion and consensus of all parties.

“As such, it is appropriate that there must begin an initiative for a national reconciliation that encompasses all political, economic, social and security agenda.

“The rakyat must be the priority now. Dedicated efforts must be in place in order to find the balance between managing the Covid-19 virus and the economic livelihood of the rakyat.

“I urge all political leaders to be truly sincere in making this a success, ” he said.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2020/10/25/ahmad-zahid-leaders-let039s-unite-and-fight-against-covid-19