KUALA LUMPUR, July 10 – Umno grassroots are expressing dissatisfaction with the government’s decisions to rationalise diesel subsidies and privatise Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB), according to a party leader. Speaking anonymously, the source revealed that the discontent was voiced by division leaders at a Monday event aimed at explaining the issues. The grassroots believe the diesel rationalisation, which took effect on June 10, should have been delayed. Despite Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s justification that the targeted mechanism would save RM4 billion annually, many within Umno, including vocal supporters of Anwar, argue the move was premature.
Additionally, there is significant unease about the MAHB privatisation, especially given the involvement of Global Infrastructure Partners, tied to alleged Israeli interests. Critics, including Umno Youth, oppose the deal, citing ethical concerns over BlackRock’s involvement in US defense companies. This growing grassroots discontent could potentially impact the unity coalition’s performance in the upcoming Sungai Bakap and Nenggiri by-elections.
