Controversy over use of the kris as UMNO symbol ahead of general assembly
By Channel NewsAsia's Malaysia Correspondent Melissa Goh | Posted: 06 November 2007 2259 hrs

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KUALA LUMPUR : Malaysia's ruling party UMNO - or the United Malays National Organisation - is all geared up for its 61st General Assembly on Wednesday.

Maintaining racial harmony is expected to be the over-riding theme.

However, the use of a Malay dagger as a symbol of UMNO as the defender of Malay rights and interests has hit the limelight again.

The brandishing of the kris, a Malay dagger, is a tradition at annual assemblies held by Malaysia's ruling party UMNO.

At the assembly of the youth wing, its chief Hishammuddin Hussein proclaimed that the kris is a symbol of defence not just for Malays, but also the other races.

Mr Hishammuddin, who is also the Malaysian Education Minister, said, "Be sheltered by the royal Malay kris. No one should feel threatened or be unnerved by the eternal symbol."

Non-Malays in the country had expressed concern that the kris represents the defence of Malay rights only.

Mr Hishamuddin's comments are in line with UMNO President Abdullah Badawi's call for delegates to steer clear of sensitive issues of race and religion at the General Assembly.

This week's assembly is the last to be held before General Elections widely expected early next year.

In his opening address on Wednesday, political analysts believe Mr Abdullah will drive home the importance of maintaining racial harmony in the multi-ethnic country.

The UMNO President, who is also Malaysia's Prime Minister, is expected to address the issue of the rising cost of living due to runaway global oil prices.

Mr Abdullah is widely expected to convey his toughest message so far, urging Malays to be prepared for competition as government subsidies and handouts cannot continue indefinitely. - CNA/ms