Kedah Umno has brushed off allegations that the health of Kedah Menteri Besar Ahmad Bashah Md Hanipah has been deteriorating.

The rumours about Ahmad Bashah's health have escalated into personal attacks with malicious intent, said Kedah Umno Youth chief Shaiful Hazizy Zainol Abidin.

"The fact is Ahmad Bashah is hale and hearty and is very much focused on state development affairs," he was quoted as saying by Astro Awani yesterday.

"His visit to the hospital was a routine one to follow up on the intestinal surgery he underwent in June this year.

"Ahmad Bashah did not collapse as alleged. He has gone on to fulfil formal invitations and has chaired party and state meetings," he added.

"In fact, Ahmad Bashah is scheduled to chair an exco meeting on Sept 21," said Shaiful, who is also the political secretary for the menteri besar.

On June 4, Ahmad Bashah was reported to have blacked out while attending a meeting at the Hotel Grand Alora, Alor Setar. He was rushed to the Kedah Medical Centre and later referred to the Penang Hospital.

At the hospital, Ahmad Bashah underwent surgery for intestinal complications.

It was speculated in the last few days that Ahmad Bashah was currently undergoing treatment at the hospital.

“Yes, it is true that Ahmad Bashah is constantly required to undergo medical checkups at the hospital. He is getting assistance from the Muafakat Kedah in ensuring both the government and party are well-maintained," explained Shaiful.

“There are several major projects in the pipeline and the party machinery is fully prepared to execute them,” he added.