“It’s ill-intended fake news aimed at creating divisions within Bersatu,” said the party’s information chief, Wan Saiful Wan Jan.

Earlier today, The Malaysian Insight, quoting sources, claimed Muhyiddin made the proposal at a recent Bersatu Supreme Council meeting and that it was opposed by some leaders.

According to the report, Muhyiddin’s rationale for this was to play up the narrative that Bersatu was ready to become the opposition as it rejected kleptocracy.

Another source in the report claimed Muhyiddin was determined to get his revenge on Umno after the party’s withdrawal of support for him brought down his administration.

“I urge everyone to refer to legitimate news sources. The contents of this report are fake and the source is unknown,” said Wan Saiful.

Ismail Sabri Yaakob, who will be sworn in today as the country’s 9th prime minister, is expected to announce his Cabinet lineup soon. Rumours have been swirling that a Bersatu leader will be appointed deputy prime minister.