PETALING JAYA, 28 May 2025 — Umno Youth chief Dr Akmal Saleh has defended his track record of helping Malaysians from all backgrounds, asserting that his stance is not anti-Chinese or anti-Indian, but against leaders who he claims threaten racial harmony and the constitutional rights of the Malay-Muslim community.
This came in response to Ayer Keroh assemblyman Kerk Chee Yee, who had recently challenged Akmal to rise above racial and religious politics and become “a leader for all Malaysians”.
In a Facebook video posted yesterday, Akmal, who is also the Merlimau assemblyman and a Melaka executive councillor, dismissed Kerk’s remarks as misguided and accused the DAP leader of hypocrisy.
“I have no issues with the Chinese or Indians. In fact, I help everyone equally, regardless of their race,” said Akmal.
“My issue is when some leaders try to disturb my religion and my race, (which have special privileges) enshrined in the Federal Constitution. I would be a coward if I don’t defend them.”
He further claimed that certain leaders, like Kerk, adopt a “narrow-minded” approach that undermines national unity.
“I have issues with leaders like Kerk who keep on threatening the racial harmony that Malaysians share,” he said.
“Look in the mirror so that DAP would become a party for all races by respecting the sensitivities in this country. Before asking others to respect you, please respect what’s enshrined in the Constitution.”
Kerk, who is also the Melaka legislative assembly’s deputy speaker, had earlier criticised Akmal for making “divisive and regressive” remarks, and urged him to emulate Melaka chief minister Ab Rauf Yusoh’s more inclusive governance style.
Akmal, however, maintained that his stand is rooted in defending what he views as fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution and not in any form of racial bias.
This latest exchange underscores the ongoing tension between race-based and multiracial political narratives in Malaysia, particularly as political leaders prepare for upcoming state and party elections.
