KUALA LUMPUR, March 28 -- Umno was obliged to endorse its Youth chief's stance over the "Allah" socks controversy despite this putting it at odds with allies in the national unity government, according analysts.

They said the position was fundamental to the identity of the Malay nationalist party that positions itself as champions of both the community and Islam in the country.

While the party's decision to fully back Youth chief Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh's demands to punish convenience chain KK Mart over the issue has made some partners uncomfortable, the analysts said Umno could not afford to be seen as wavering on the issue that has outraged some sections of the country.

"Umno should be portrayed as the defender of Islam, despite knowi...