KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 15 — Umno was become undeniably divided as its leaders have made the party about themselves and their agendas, said former deputy president Tun Musa Hitam.

While Musa said Malaysian politicians in general have become more self-serving, some in Umno were engrossed in ensuring their own positions rather than prioritising the interests of those they claim to represent and serve.

"In politics there are ups and downs. I do not think Umno will be around forever, that’s not realistic. As for the split, it is very obvious to me it is happening.

"There’s a split at the core of Umno itself, it is the democratic process as each of them are trying to raise their profile within Umno,” Musa was quoted saying by the Astro Awani news portal today.

The former deputy prime minister said such politicians were concerned only about their own profile and power, to the point of being willing to abuse their positions to amass these.

Noting that the 15th general election was nearing, Musa said he hoped these leaders would remember to put their constituents’ needs before their own.

Musa also expressed concern over the proliferation of political parties in the country, saying some of these appeared to have firebrand leaders with supporters who were given to incitement.