KOTA KINABALU: Internal clashes among party leaders should stop immediately, urged Sembrong Umno division chief Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein.

He said an immediate stop to internal political clashes would prevent more conflict from cropping up in all levels of Umno.

"Harassing leaders, whether within the party or in the government, must also stop.

"Those given positions either in the cabinet or in the supreme council (of political parties) are responsible for ensuring that conflict is curbed. 

"Umno is no stranger to situations that demand that its members close ranks."

Hishammuddin said disputes among the top leadership of political parties would give the people the impression that the party was irresponsible.

"Eventually, we will face the general election. And the people will determine our position as a government.

"Then we will face party elections and party members will determine the top leadership of the party.

"So even before anything has taken place, we have already started arguing with each other. It is not only unhealthy, but also gives a message to outsiders that we are irresponsible.

"So, if you ask me personally, please stop."

Hishammuddin, who is senior defence minister, said this at a press conference after opening the Kota Kinabalu Air Station and Squadron 503.

He witnessed the handover of maritime operations helicopters to the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) at the RMN East Fleet Command Headquarters here today.

He said controversies that result in party leaders clashing would lead the people to punish the parties.

"It is not only happening in Umno or Barisan Nasional. Other parties are facing the same situation, so it's not just us.

"For Umno, I am confident as we have gone through this before and handled it well and because of what we inherited from previous Umno leaders.

"We may face even greater clashes. But it will not affect Umno's position as a party the people can rely on.

"I hope to convince the people to believe that Umno can still be relied on to ensure the security of our country, address the economy and stabilise the political landscape."

On another matter, Hishammuddin was asked to comment on a viral claim on social media about the alleged new leadership of Umno if party president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi were to step down.

Hishammuddin said such claims were normal, more so when party elections were near.

"When the election gets closer, there will be more lists. That is normal from my experience."