“I spoke to some of them, they don’t feel like they can leave the party, because they were there for religion, race and country. But it’s no longer like that,” Mukhriz said at a Raya do at the Perdana Leadership Foundation here today.

Speaking to a crowd of over 100, Mukhriz, son of former premier Dr Mahathir Mohamad, said the corruption level in Malaysia had reached an “embarrassing” level, and called for those who wish to rectify this to join the new party to be formed by his father.

“If you want a brighter future for your children and your grandchildren, then join us.

“If you think what is happening now (corruption and abuse of power) needs to be stopped, if you want a government whose integrity won’t be questioned, and a leader who won’t embezzle the people’s money, then join us.”

He said Mahathir himself would submit the necessary papers to the Registrar of Societies soon. He hoped there would be no attempts to hinder the process.

“If you say Malaysia is a democratic country, then let us form the party.”

When asked if those setting up the party have met with other parties and NGOs, Mukhriz said: “Yes. Our aim is to topple Barisan Nasional (BN) in the next general election. “We are not interested in becoming the opposition,” he added.

Also present today was his mother, Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali. His father had been scheduled to attend, but had to stay home instead because of his health.

Dr Mahathir, who held power for 22 years, left Umno in February, along with Siti Hasmah.

Mukhriz was expelled from the party last month for working together with the opposition in an effort to topple Umno president and prime minister Najib Razak and his administration.

Following this, Mahathir announced that a new party is in the pipeline, formed to cater to those who don’t want to be in the existing opposition parties, but want fight against BN.