“Ghost” remark on Rumah Bangsa reflects rhetoric over substance, says former BN Siswa sec-gen

KUALA LUMPUR: A former leader of the student wing aligned with Barisan Nasional has criticised the use of the term “ghost” to describe the Rumah Bangsa concept, saying it reflects political rhetoric rather than substantive debate.

Syed Mohd Syed Nasir, a former secretary-general of Siswa BN Malaysia, said the remark by Abdul Hadi Awang sidesteps a meaningful discussion about the proposal associated with United Malays National Organisation (Umno).

“Using the term ‘ghost’ is political rhetoric aimed at weakening an idea without addressing its actual substance,” he said in a statement.

“If the Rumah Bangsa concept is truly weak, then it should be challenged with policy arguments rather than labels.”

Syed Mohd argued that the Rumah Bangsa initiative seeks to open space for greater Malay political unity, adding that such efforts could potentially alter the current political landscape.

He suggested that strong reactions to the proposal may reflect concerns about the implications of a more consolidated Malay political bloc.

“In Malaysian political history, symbolic attacks such as calling something a ‘ghost’ are often used to shape negative perceptions,” he said.

“Such language tends to appeal to emotions among supporters rather than encourage a serious policy debate.”

Syed Mohd also posed several questions to critics of the idea.

“If Rumah Bangsa is truly a ‘ghost’, why fear the concept?” he asked.

“Why not debate the idea openly? Or is the real concern the possibility of Malays coming together politically?”

The Rumah Bangsa proposal has recently drawn mixed reactions from political leaders, with some welcoming discussions on unity while others expressing scepticism about its intent and practicality.