KUALA LUMPUR: In facing the upcoming general election, Barisan Nasional will present itself as one team - which is Team Malaysia, says Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan.

In his opening speech, the Barisan deputy chairman said that the coalition must come forward not only with the Barisan logo, but united in heart, work and efforts. 

"We must send a clear message to the rakyat that Barisan is Team Malaysia. Not team Umno, MCA, MIC and PBRS, respectively," he said at the Barisan Convention at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur on Wednesday (June 1).

Mohamad said that Barisan must highlight the whole team, as the best team for the future of Malaysia.

"On any stage, on any programme, we must stand as a united Barisan.

"When Barisan is strong, Umno will automatically be strong. MIC will be strong, and MCA will be strong. All component parties will be strong," he added. 

Mohamad also offered several suggestions on how the coalition can reinvent and recalibrate itself.

He said that Barisan needed to portray itself as an idea, not just a mere political alliance.

"It must represent an idea of unity and cooperation. An idea of unity in diversity. An idea about multiculturalism, progress and diversity," he said.

He also gave several reasons why Barisan should take over to helm the government. 

"At this time when we are gathering, the rakyat outside are facing huge challenges. The prices of goods are increasing outside of the capabilities of the people.

"In fact, the supply of food is at risk and is not enough. Trust in public institutions has also been affected.

"The environment for investment is starting to be sluggish and slow. Because of that, we need to save Malaysia. That should be the main mission of Barisan.

"Just look at what happened to this country, when Barisan was defeated in 2018, Pakatan Harapan failed to govern and they failed miserably," he said. 

"That is all because we do not have dominant power. We are forced to follow, with all the political constraints and cooperation, with our various allies.

"If we want to act more aggressively, we will be threatened," he said.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2022/06/01/tok-mat-bn-to-present-itself-as-team-malaysia-in-ge15