This was among the key points made by Barisan Nasional chairman Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak during a retreat involving component party leaders at the Putra World Trade Centre.

Selangor Umno chief Tan Sri Noh Omar said Najib emphasised the importance of tolerance and maintaining Barisan’s moderate policies, which would unite all races.

“As we prepare to face the general election, all component parties must act based on the Barisan spirit,” Noh told reporters.

Noh said a seat traditionally contested by one component party for three terms may require a strategic change.

“We must also look at whether it is a winnable seat and whether the leader contesting can be accepted by the rakyat,” he said.

He said the concept of power sharing practised by Barisan must be continued to win in the general election.

Noh, who is also an Umno supreme council member, also said it would be better for all component parties to use the Barisan logo instead of their own individual symbols.

“From now on, I think it is best if we just use one logo because we will only be using the Barisan logo during the general election,” he said.

Noh added that they must be able to adapt to the new challenges to remain relevant.

Sungai Besar MP Budiman Mohd Zohdi also said Najib had indicated that regaining a two-thirds majority was of utmost importance.

“All programmes starting from now are to achieve that target,” he said.

An Umno supreme council member, who refused to be named, said Barisan had identified at least 33 seats which it had lost by slim majorities.

“If we change our tactics and win back those seats, we can get back our two-thirds majority in Parlia­ment.

“Najib also talked about stepping up efforts to woo young voters, civil servants and pensioners,” he said.

Gerakan president Datuk Seri Mah Siew Keong said Najib urged component parties to increase cooperation and remain united.

“I think unity is very important and we must always work as one team,” said Mah.

Another component leader, who declined to be identified, said Najib pointed out that some Barisan policies dated back to since Indepen­dence and there was no point arguing over them.

“Please do not argue or try to revisit our moderate policies, especially with regard to vernacular schools,” he said.