Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Shahidan Kassim has lashed out at those who criticise premier Najib Abdul Razak non-stop, especially about the recent Sabah earthquake.

"Why must you (criticise him) everyday? Can't you sleep if you don't talk about the prime minister for one day?" he asked during a press conference at his office in Parliament today.

"What is important is that the search and rescue mission (for the Sabah quake victims) is successful," he added.

Shahidan said this when asked about Najib not visiting Sabah, where an earthquake in the Mount Kinabalu area has killed over a dozen people.

"The prime minister had agreed to meet the king of Saudi Arabia but when he heard of the earthquake he made immediate arrangements to come back as soon as possible," Shahidan said, adding that Najib would be arriving in Kota Kinabalu tomorrow.

He said the government will also be making contributions to the victims of the quake including to mountain guides who are unable to earn a living due to Mount Kinabalu's closure to tourists.

SAR operations defended

Shahidan also hit out at those who have been criticising search and rescue operations and spreading false allegations on social media.

"Our personnel are capable and they arrived at the site early," he claimed.

He also pointed out the difficulty faced by rescuers who must work in rough conditions where oxygen levels are depleted due to the altitude.

He added a BN lawmaker plans to table an emergency motion on the Sabah earthquake tomorrow  in Parliament.

However, he was not clear on the details and whether or not the motion is approved was up to the Speaker of the house.