In a statement, Hanipa also mocked claims that he was in poor health.

“Yes, it’s true that I collapsed twice while carrying out my duties. That is why there is speculation that I am unwell.”

In 2016, Hanipa collapsed while debating in Parliament. Two years later, he collapsed during a monthly assembly of the Prime Minister’s Department.

“That’s hilarious because it is as if the other political leaders in the country are in tip-top condition,” he said.

“What is funny is that even in my supposedly unwell state, I was able to actively debate in Parliament on nearly every bill.”

He also said he was asked to represent Amanah in the Parliamentary Select Committee on the anti-hopping law which met regularly.

“The person said to be unhealthy, ironically, went down to the ground in Sepang every week to meet the people. I am always ready (to contest) if I am nominated by my party because I know I can still serve.”

Hanipa, the former deputy law minister, said he believed Amanah would continue to prioritise a person’s winnability in selecting candidates.

“That is what I have always been told unless that policy has now changed.”

Earlier today, a source told FMT that Amanah was looking to drop Hanipa due to health reasons and replace him with Aiman Athirah Sabu, the party’s Wanita chief in Sepang.

However, it is understood that the party’s grassroots preferred other party leaders to replace Hanipa if he was dropped.

Hanipa was first elected the Sepang MP in the 2013 general election.