WORLD> Asia-Pacific
Malaysia ruling party endorses radical reforms
(Agencies)
Updated: 2009-10-15 14:52

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia: Malaysia's ruling party on Thursday endorsed radical reforms in the way its top leaders are elected in a bid to revive public support after losses in general elections.

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"The people have sent a clear message to us. We are aware and we repent," Prime Minister Najib Razak told the annual meeting of the United Malays National Organization, which is the midst of its worst crisis in the 52 years it has been in power.

Najib, who took over as party president in March, decided to push for changes in the party's constitution in an effort to make it more transparent, inclusive and democratic.

The amendments were endorsed by a show of hands and applause by some 2,000 party delegates.

Under the new system, top party leaders will be elected by some 146,000 members, comprising 500 members each from 191 districts, plus 51,000 members from the women and youth wings. The party's total membership is more than 3 million.

This would effect the post of party president, currently held by Najib, deputy president and several vice presidents.

Until now, only 2,500 special delegates, representing the 191 districts, were allowed to elect the party's top leaders. Officials acknowledge the system has bred a culture of patronage, with candidates offering bribes in return for votes.

The party also abolished the need for members to get a minimum number of nominations to contest top posts. This had led to contestants offering bribes for nominations.

"These are not merely cosmetic amendments but represent significant changes. ... Following these reforms, I urge all members to shun negative elements such as money politics so that we become a party that is clean and respected," Najib said in a speech to the party delegates.