When Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu) president Muhyiddin Yassin admitted that Umno and BN had developed Malaysia, Dr Mahathir Mohamad claimed that Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak's apple polishers were ecstatic.

The Bersatu chairperson said despite Muhyiddin making the statement in referrence to Umno and BN of the past, these individuals took it as a compliment to the present administration.

Mahathir then proceeded to criticise Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak, accusing the latter of bringing disrepute to Malaysia.

"Malaysia was once known as the Asian Tiger. But now, Malaysia is known throughout the world as a highly corrupt nation. It is accused of being governed by a kleptocrat...

"At present, the administration and development of Malaysia are viewed with disgust, and is no longer an example for other countries," he said in a blog posting.

The former premier also claimed that Najib was afraid to attend the United Nations meet for fear of being questioned on his involvement in the 1MDB issue.

"In the country, Najib and his supporters in Umno are considered as traitors to the Malay race and Malaysia. Government funds are depleted to buy support under the 'Cash is King' slogan.

"The good name of Umno and BN has been tainted to the point it is despised by the people and viewed with disdain by the world," he added.

Najib has denied abusing public funds for personal gain, and blamed such allegations on those conspiring with Mahathir to topple him from power.

The prime minister's camp have also accused Mahathir of attempting to pave the way for his son and Bersatu deputy president Mukhriz to become prime minister.

Last week, Najib took a swipe at his former-mentor-turned nemesis for making a U-turn on the Bantuan Rakyat 1Malaysia (BR1M) financial aid.