Hishammuddin slams those who questioned social contract

New Straits Times, 25 March 2009

Sajahan Abdul Waheed

KUALA LUMPUR, Wed: Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein hit out at certain quarters who questioned the social contract and the privileges enjoyed by Malays and the Bumiputeras in his farewell speech as the Umno Youth head today. (See video)
“The social contract has been misinterpreted and made an issue to burn racial sentiments," he said when addressing the Umno Youth delegates during its general assembly today.

"People are not discussing it from the right perspective. What they forget is that in the social contract, there is also a guarantee on the future and safety of the non-Malays.

“There are some who dare to even question our Constitution, insult the royalty and challenge the status of Islam as our official religion."

Hishammuddin, who was choked with emotions several times while delivering his speech, cautioned those concerned against misusing the freedom of speech and expression, especially on issues that would create racial disharmony.
“Umno Youth should fight against such people and traitors who are willing to do anything to discredit the name and image of our country in order to achieve their political ambitions," he said.

“We will protect our Constitution, uphold the laws, protect the rights and status of the Malays and Bumiputeras, Islam and the royal institution."

On the elections for top posts in Umno Youth, Hishammuddin said it showed that the movement was not short of capable and talented leaders who were willing to work for the people and the party.

“I believe that the new leaders elected today would be faced with big challenges to rejuvenate Umno Youth and the party. I am sure they will have the ability to sail through.

“I am also pleased that all three candidates contesting for the Umno Youth head post had pledged to accept the decision made by the delegates and would not allow the movement to be divided.

Hishammuddin expressed his gratitude on behalf of Umno Youth members to out-going party president Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi for his contributions.

“We also pledge our continued and undivided support to our in-coming president Datuk Seri Najib Razak.”

At the end of his speech, Hishammuddin was presented with a kris, 'keris panca warisan', by his deputy Khairy Jamaluddin.