KUALA LUMPUR: Despite stepping down as Perikatan Nasional chairman, Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin stressed that Bersatu remains a principled, consistent and loyal partner in the coalition.
"This cooperation will continue to be maintained for the stability and strength of the coalition. While facing current challenges, our priority is to ensure the survival and future of the party," he said in a statement on social media on Friday (Jan 2).
The Bersatu president also called on party members to strengthen cooperation and unity, and to close all gaps within the party as the New Year begins.
Muhyiddin said sometimes it is necessary to take a step back.
"This is not as a sign of weakness, but a strategic step to strengthen the foundation, organise the leadership line and strengthen the sustainability of the party.
"I would like to emphasise that I am still leading Bersatu as its president. I stress and urge that all Bersatu members remain steadfast, disciplined and uphold a culture of mutual respect as well as resolve any differences maturely and privately in the interests of the party," he said.
On Dec 30, Muhyiddin announced he would step down as Perikatan chairman effective Jan 1. Several Bersatu leaders also resigned from their Perikatan positions, including Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali, Datuk Dr Sahruddin Jamal, Datuk Seri Ahmad Faizal Azumu, and Mohamad Hanifah.
