Muda said the decision was made out of respect for the late Pulai MP and Simpang Jeram state assemblyman Salahuddin Ayub, who passed away last month.

Salahuddin, who was the domestic trade and cost of living minister, died at Hospital Sultanah Bahiyah in Alor Setar, Kedah on July 23 after undergoing surgery for a brain haemorrhage.

“This decision was made as a mark of respect for the late Salahuddin, who contributed significantly to his colleagues and to our beloved nation,” Muda said in a statement in reference to the former Amanah deputy president.

“Muda wishes candidates taking part in the by-elections all the best, especially those from Amanah. May (Salahuddin’s) legacy continue.”

Muda, which contested the Aug 12 elections in six states, saw all 19 of its candidates lose their deposits after failing to gain the minimum one-eighth of votes in their respective constituencies.

The Election Commission has declared Aug 26 as the nomination day for both the Pulai and Simpang Jeram by-elections. The polling day has been set for Sept 9 with early voting taking place on Sept 5.

Pakatan Harapan will be represented by former Johor state assembly speaker Suhaizan Kaiat who will stand in Pulai while Nazri Abdul Rahman is contesting in Simpang Jeram. Both men are from Amanah.

Perikatan Nasional chairman Muhyiddin Yassin is expected to announce the coalition’s candidates for both by-elections this week.