“This is only a suggestion, not the final decision,” said Bersatu secretary-general Hamzah Zainudin at a press conference at the party’s general assembly here today.

Bersatu Youth chief Wan Ahmad Fayhsal Wan Ahmad Kamal said he will push for a motion to ensure that Muhyiddin remains as the president.

“I will definitely voice this out during my closing speech tomorrow,” he said.

Bersatu deputy president Ahmad Faizal Azumu said he was surprised by Muhyiddin’s announcement, adding that this was also evident by the reaction of the delegates who stood up to voice their displeasure.

“Personally, I disagree with it. I did not want to look at him (after the announcement) as I was very upset,” he said.

Asked whether he will contest for the top post, Faizal replied: “Let’s not go there as the grassroots want Muhyiddin (to stay).”

Earlier today, Muhyiddin said it was time for him to let go of the reins of Bersatu as the party has many capable leaders, leading to cries of “no” from the crowd.

Muhyiddin also assured party members that he will give his all throughout the remaining period of his presidency.

The former prime minister said he wants all Bersatu leaders to sit down and discuss who should be the next president, to avoid any internal strife.

He added that he does not want to “leave the party broken into pieces” when he steps down as the president.

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