JOHOR BARU, Jan 29 — Newly appointed Johor Umno chairman Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin wants to ensure unity with the state party liaison committee remains intact.

Thanking Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi for entrusting him with the job, Mohamed Khaled, who is also Umno vice-president, said the position comes with very heavy responsibilities.

"I also appreciate Datuk Seri Hasni Mohammad's great contribution to Johor Umno.

"This leadership transition was carried out so that I can continue the good work he has done, InsyaAllah,” he said in a statement posted on Facebook today.

On Friday, the Umno Supreme Council made a decision to drop Hasni, who is also Simpang Renggam MP, as state party chief, and announced Mohamed Khaled as his replacement.

Mohamed Khaled said the leadership change was not meant to strengthen certain factions or groups, but instead aimed at rebuilding Umno’s strength.

"In politics, there are always challenges. Accept them as part of the struggle and Insya-Allah there will be blessings from this,” he said.

The Kota Tinggi MP urged the state party leadership to consolidate and speak in one voice for the sake of party continuity, without excluding or marginalising anyone.

"To me, everyone is Johor Umno's family member and friend who will be celebrated and appreciated,” said the former Johor chief minister. — Bernama