His party wanted more time to work out a common framework, adding that they had in principle agreed upon several matters including on Islam, freedom of religion, the position of bumiputeras and non-bumiputeras and on reforms.
Speaking at the Pakatan Harapan’s first convention, he said he had already asked for a meeting of experts from opposition parties to discuss the common framework.
“I will then sign the agreement on behalf of PPBM,” he said, adding that the party was also seeking cooperation with other opposition parties, including those in East Malaysia.
Earlier today, PPBM chairman Dr Mahathir Mohamad had said that the party would join Pakatan Harapan after sorting out certain matters.
Pakatan Harapan comprises the DAP, PKR and Parti Amanah Negara.
Yesterday, The Star reported that Muhyiddin had withdrawn from signing a “co-operation agreement” as he wanted more time to consider other options, and that he wanted more discussions about his party’s relationship with DAP and Amanah.
Former PPBM member Khairuddin Abu Hassan has also claimed that Muhyiddin was stalling as he wanted to work out an arrangement with PAS, who had previously stated it would not work with DAP.
In response, Muhyiddin said today: “There are some who say I have cold feet about joining Pakatan Harapan. I’m sorry, but my feet are still warm. Neither is there any truth about wanting to pull out,” he said.
PPBM’s hesitation had nothing to do with having little confidence in the opposition coalition.
Muhyiddin mooted that a group comprising experts from various opposition parties be set up to discuss a common policy. He said he had already asked the Pakatan secretariat to set a date for a meeting.
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