IPOH: Former Pasir Salak member of parliament Datuk Seri Tajuddin Abdul Rahman expressed his gratitude to Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi today for resolving their long-standing dispute from over two years ago.
In a special video message sent to the New Straits Times this morning, Tajuddin praised Ahmad Zahid's magnanimity in setting aside their previous differences and welcomed his decision to reintegrate him into the party.
"I warmly accept the advice he has given me. God willing, I look forward to collaborating closely with him as an Umno member, a prominent figure in the party and part of the important person in the current government," he said.
Tajuddin was suspended from Umno for six years in October 2022 over his criticism of Ahmad Zahid.
About four months before his suspension, Tajuddin was removed from his post in the party supreme council and dropped as Malaysia's ambassador to Indonesia.
Tajuddin said that he had been waiting for this decision for nearly two years and vowed to continue serving the party, particularly in preparation for the upcoming 16th General Election (GE16).
"Praise be to Allah, I have been waiting for this moment for almost two years. I am deeply grateful to the party's supreme council members who have unanimously supported the decision to lift my membership suspension.
"I am eager to continue my service and contribute to the party's efforts in defending the future of our race, religion, and beloved nation," he said.
He also acknowledged the outpouring of support from well-wishers via phone calls, WhatsApp messages, and social media, encouraging him to keep fighting alongside his Umno colleagues.
"I truly appreciate their encouragement, and, with God's permission and good health, I will do my utmost to serve the party to the best of my ability," he added.
In the five-minute and 46-second video, Tajuddin also highlighted the intense challenges facing Umno as it prepares for the upcoming GE16.
"Significant efforts are required to garner voter and public support, ensuring that Umno and BN remain the trusted representatives of the people.
"It is my belief that Umno and BN, together with our political allies, will rise above these challenges and restore the party to its rightful place as a respected and influential force," he said.
On Monday, Umno lifted the six-year suspension of former Pasir Salak MP Datuk Seri Tajuddin Abdul Rahman, effective immediately.
Umno secretary-general Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki said the decision was made in accordance with the party's constitution.