Umno deputy president Muhyiddin Yassin has dismissed claims of a gag order against former party vice-president and Gua Musang MP Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah

NONE "No circular has been issued against any Umno leaders be it at the state or division level or against any individuals," he said at a press conference in Kuala Lumpur today.

Muhyiddin (right) was responding to Razaleigh’s claims this morning, that there was no longer space in Umno for freedom of speech.

He pointed out that if Razaleigh was upset about not being able to speak in the upcoming Umno General Assembly, then he should understand that many others would also like to speak during the event.

"If everyone wants to speak then the general assembly will not even conclude within a month, that is why we choose state representatives which is elected through consultation,” he said.

If Razaleigh has a suggestion or differing views with the party, Muhyiddin adds, then he can propose it anytime without having to wait for the general assembly.

"Everyday when i read the newspapers, Umno leaders are saying this and that... some even speak more than they should.

"The system of democracy in Umno is alive," he said.

Muhyiddin said Umno has never taken action against Razaleigh for speaking out against the party recently.

"So i don't know what is he saying about not being able to speak."

Don't create religious tensions

On another development, Muhyiddin chided the Malaysian Consultative Council of Buddhism Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism and Taoism (MCCBCHST) over its statement that cow slaughter rituals should not be held in public places .

"I think there is no need for such views as it will create misunderstanding and it touches on the sensitivities of Muslims," said Muhyiddin.

"I hope they do not touch on matters like this again, especially since those commenting are non-Muslims and may not understand it."

Last week, the MCCBCHST called on the authorities to stop the slaughtering of cows in schools as it affected the sensitivites certain communities, especially those of the Hindu faith who consider cows sacred.

"The Hindus in this country understands (cow slaughtering rituals), they see it in the newspapers and in the television, so they understand (Muslim) practices.

"This is Islam, Hinduism is another religion, nevermind. Your religion is you religion, our religion is our religion, this is said in the Quaran."

Taking an example, Muhyiddin said Muslims cannot consume pork but they do not prevent others from consuming it.

"So there is no need to add on to more problems. You don't see Hindus saying that you cannot slaughter cows in Mekkah, don't create new problems."