Azis, a former Sepanggar MP, said he had read Yeoh’s book and was puzzled by the recent outcry from the opposition over the publication, which was first released over a decade ago.

He said he was a devoted Muslim and a friend of the Segambut MP, and that she had never tried to convert him to Christianity.

“From my understanding after reading the book, there is nothing in the book that talks about trying to convert anybody to Christianity.

“I’m aware that there have been police reports against her and the book for various reasons, and I am honestly puzzled by them.

“However, as a proud Sabahan, I’m grateful that, despite our different races and religions, we Sabahans continue to live in peace, harmony and have mutual respect for one another’s beliefs and cultures.

“This post is simply to show my moral support for her as a friend.

“I pray for her to stay strong and face the challenges ahead,” the former deputy minister said in a Facebook post.

Police have received 182 reports against Yeoh over her book, while 59 people have given their statements to assist in investigations. Yeoh has yet to give her statement though she has filed a police report over the issue.

Bersatu leaders had lodged multiple reports against Yeoh, the youth and sports minister, accusing her of attempting to convert Muslims and turn Malaysia into a Christian nation.

This was after Yeoh’s defamation suit against former inspector-general of police Musa Hassan over a statement he made was dismissed by the High Court.

He had allegedly accused Yeoh of writing her book to make Malaysia a Christian nation, destroy Islam and the country, and place her personal interests above that of the nation’s.