KUALA LUMPUR — A proposal for the formation of a “Grand Collaboration” through political understanding (Tafahum Siyasi) among the country’s political party coalitions has been put forward to avoid political clashes that would be detrimental to the ummah and the nation, said Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

He said the concept does not involve a merger of political parties, but rather a common ground for mutual understanding aimed at preserving political stability and reinvigorating national economic growth.

He said the approach draws lessons from the wisdom of the Treaty of Hudaibiyah and the opening of Makkah, which demonstrated that political victory and understanding must be accompanied by the values of forgiveness, compassion and unity.

“This Grand Collaboration is not a merger of parties. Instead, it is an understanding aimed at avoiding clashes that would be detrimental. I understand and can sense the concerns of the Malays, who no longer want us to clash and quarrel among ourselves.

“However, in building this common ground, we are not forcing any party to dilute its identity. In other words, whoever Umno and Barisan Nasional (BN) work with, Umno remains Umno, and Barisan Nasional remains Barisan Nasional,” he said.