PETALING JAYA (Sept 18): Former Minister of International Trade and Industry Datuk Seri Mustapa Mohamed has quit Umno after more than 40 years in the party, saying Umno's direction is no longer in line with the principles of inclusiveness and moderation that he espouses.

"Since the conclusion of the 14th general election, like others, I have made several observations about Malaysia's political landscape, the direction of Umno and Barisan Nasional, as well as the country's future.

"Based on a few recent developments, I am of the opinion that efforts to recover the deficit of trust and image of the party have become increasingly difficult. There is no sign that the majority of the people that are multi-ethnic and multi-religious will believe in this party's struggle anymore," Mustapa, who was an Umno Supreme Council member, said in a statement announcing his resignation today.

"To be relevant in the dynamics of national politics today, Umno, as the founder of Barisan Nasional, cannot rely on the support of Malays and Bumiputeras alone. On principle, my political stand is that Umno has to be a party that is inclusive, moderate and centrist. Umno must continue to fight for the interests of Bumiputeras and Islam, but without ever sidelining the interests other races and religions. I believe this is the best way in the framework of a multiracial Malaysia.

"However, in my view, the direction that has been taken by Umno now is no longer in line with the political principle that I have held all this while, and there has not been much effort that is convincing that the party rejuvenation process has begun.

"Hence, based on this, after much thought and consideration, I have decided to resign as an Umno member after over 40 years in service for this party," said Mustapa, who is also the Jeli Member of Parliament.

In conclusion, he thanked his friends from Jeli, Kelantan, and throughout the nation who has helped him during his service with Umno, adding that he will continue to contribute ideas towards building a Malaysia that is to be reckoned with.

"I pray that our country will continue to be peaceful, prosperous and respected at the international level.

"Hopefully this new Malaysian chapter will create a political culture that is more mature and inclusive, while placing governance and integrity as a priority. It is time that all parties, regardless of political affiliation, find a common point for the interest of the people," he added.

Soon after Tok Pa's resignation was announced in online news portals, former Umno Youth chief Khairy Jamaluddin tweeted about his frustration over the former Minister's quitting Umno.

"I have been vocal in cautioning my party against this alliance with PAS and I bore the brunt of attacks from within.

"Now, we have lost a leading light of our party. A brilliant and good man. This is on you, Mr President (Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi)," the Rembau MP tweeted.