The “groom”, Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, is clad in a suit while the “bride”, PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang is in a gown and clutching a bouquet.

This is the image published by the Sabah-based Overseas Chinese Daily News on the alliance between the nation's two biggest Malay-Muslim parties.

The first paragraph stated that Umno and PAS are viewed as perpetuating extremism and their decision to walk down the aisle hand in hand would have a massive impact on the political landscape.

Umno information chief Shamsul Anuar Nasarah (above) censured the newspaper for being “insolent” in publishing the image.

“Freedom of expression or airing views does not mean we can say and do anything which crosses boundaries, what more if it violates journalistic ethics.

“We want this newspaper to apologise. Why the need to be concerned or threatened by the cooperation between Umno and PAS?

“Malaysia practices a democratic system. So Umno and PAS have done nothing wrong. In fact, the cooperation is good for all races,” he was quoted as saying by Umno Online.

Shamsul said while the newspaper is free to disagree with the cooperation, it was, however, rude to publish an image (photo) showing the presidents of Umno and PAS appearing to be indulging in same-sex marriage.

Reiterating his call for an apology, the Lenggong MP said the newspaper had insulted Umno and PAS.

Meanwhile, Utusan Online reported that the image also drew flak from netizens, with some suggesting the daily be hauled to court and that a peaceful demonstration be held outside its office.

On Sept 14, Zahid and Hadi inked a charter to formalise Umno and PAS' alliance.

Their cooperation had proven successful in three previous by-elections, Cameron Highlands, Semenyih and Rantau.

The parties' influence following the formalisation of their ties is slated to be tested in the upcoming by-election for the Tanjung Piai parliamentary seat in Johor.

The seat fell vacant following the death of Bersatu's Dr Farid Md Rafik on Saturday.