Johor Umno unfazed by ‘UmDAP’ label, says youth chief

2026-03-18 - 09:11

Johor Umno Youth chief Noor Azleen Ambros said the BN-led state government’s stability has allowed it to place greater focus on economic development. (Facebook pic) PETALING JAYA: Johor Umno is unfazed by its rivals labelling the party “UmDAP” – a mockery of its alliance with long-time rival DAP – saying its focus is on the real issues faced by the people. Johor Umno Youth chief Noor Azleen Ambros said the Barisan Nasional-led state government did not want to get caught up in political polemics. “If they (the opposition) want to play up that ‘UmDAP’ sentiment, or racial sentiments, that’s up to them. But Johor Umno and Johor Umno Youth will focus on resolving the people’s issues,” he told FMT. Azleen said among the main issues Umno was looking to address was providing quality job opportunities, affordable homes, and higher education for youths. “Young people often talk about having good jobs with good pay, as that determines the stability of their lives. They also want homes, which give them some sense of security to start planning for the future,” he said. He said the BN state government’s stability has allowed for greater focus on Johor’s economic development. In the 2022 Johor state election, BN won 40 of the 56 seats up for grabs, followed by Pakatan Harapan (12), Perikatan Nasional (three) and Muda (one). The “UmDAP” label has often been used by PN to denigrate Umno’s relationship with DAP as a government coalition partner. Umno has contended that BN’s alliance with PH, and thereby DAP, came out of necessity since the then king had called for a unity government to be formed after the 2022 general election ended in a hung Parliament.