PETALING JAYA – Former Umno Youth Chief Khairy Jamaluddin Abu Bakar revealed that despite being expelled from Umno in January 2023, he has not joined any political party as his affection for his former party remains strong. Speaking during the Keluar Sekejap podcast on Dec 7, Mr. Khairy stated that he still considers himself an Umno member at heart.
“Since my expulsion, I haven’t joined any party, even though offers have been made. Almost every party, officially or unofficially, has approached me, but I’ve declined,” he shared.
He added, “I was even given the opportunity to stand as a candidate during the state election, but I didn’t accept it because, in my heart, I still see myself as an Umno member. I didn’t leave Umno; I was expelled, and to this day, I’m not entirely sure why I was expelled.”
His remarks come shortly after Umno reinstated the membership of Datuk Seri Tajuddin Abdul Rahman, with Umno President Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi signaling openness to welcoming back previously expelled leaders. Mr. Khairy, however, emphasized that any return to politics or Umno must align with his vision for a transformed party.
“My return to Umno must come with a commitment from all involved parties—the current leadership and myself—to adhere to party discipline,” he said.
He expressed a desire for a revitalized Umno, stating, “My idealism is to see a transformed Umno—better, more relevant, fresh, and with integrity. If my return is merely to be a follower, I’m not interested.”
Mr. Khairy clarified that his goal is not to oppose the current leadership but to advocate for his dream of a stronger and reformed Umno.