Muhyddin Yassin has decided to remain in Umno, and will refer his suspension as deputy president to the Registrar of Societies (ROS).

"I will stay with Umno. This issue does not arise, I've never talked about leaving," he told a press conference in Kuala Lumpur today.

"I will send a letter to the Registrar of Societies (ROS) so they can determine if my suspension was in accordance with party rules," he said.

Describing Umno as "good", he said the party is not at fault for the various crisis plaguing it.

"I sought the views of various leaders and ordinary people as well, my family and wife. They felt that I should remain in Umno as it is in my blood," he added.

Also present at the joint press conference were Umno vice-president Shafie Apdal and former Kedah menteri besar Mukhriz Mahathir, both of whom are also sticking with the party.

Muhyiddin was suspended as Umno number two last Friday for continuously speaking out against Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak, who is also the party president.

This was seven months after Najib axed Muhyiddin as deputy prime minister for similar reasons.

Speculation had been rife as to whether Muhyiddin would remain in Umno after former premier Dr Mahathir Mohamad quit the party in protest against Najib.

Muhyiddin said if he quit the party he would not have any locus standi (legal standing) to speak against Umno.

He added that people had supported him before simply on his views and for speaking out against Najib, and hoped this support would continue.

Related reports

Muhyiddin remains in Umno, to challenge suspension

Analyst: Muhyiddin must go all out, or be forgotten