The Registrar of Societies (ROS) has warned Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu) that it may face deregistration if it uses the name "Bersatu" instead of the party name "PPBM" it was ordered to use.

Bersatu was informed of this in a letter from the ROS to Bersatu, its secretary-general Sharuddin Md Salleh said in a statement this evening.

"The letter dated Nov 9 reminded and warned 'PPBM' not to use the name 'Bersatu' in any of its programmes or activities, including ceramah, publications, posters, buntings and others.

"The letter also warned that if there is evidence that shows PPBM is still using the name Bersatu, it (ROS) will not hesitate to take stern action against PPBM, including deregistering PPBM," Shahruddin said.

He said he was disappointed with the decision as many members are familiar with the name "Bersatu".

Nonetheless, Shahruddin urged party members to comply with the ROS instruction in all official party dealings.

"We need to comply as we do not want this issue, which threatens all the efforts that have been put into strengthening the party," he said.

The "Bersatu" name was the first choice when the party registered itself but it was opposed by BN leaders who claimed it was "confusing".

The ROS subsequently approved the party's registration, and instructed it to use the term "PPBM".