Former Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir, in a widely circulated video clip, accused Bersatu President Tan Sri Muhyiddin of embezzling party funds, an allegation Muhyiddin has denied.
"I have never stolen party funds. All donations are deposited into the party’s account and managed openly and transparently by the party’s treasurer-general."
Muhyiddin, who is also the Perikatan Nasional chairman, said in a statement on Saturday (December 13) that Dr. Mahathir likely made such allegations because he received incorrect information from some irresponsible individuals.
Muhyiddin said that as a national-level politician, Dr. Mahathir should have verified the situation with him before making any accusations.
"In the many meetings I have had with him, he has never mentioned this issue to me directly. Therefore, I feel obliged to clarify this matter to avoid being slandered."
Nevertheless, Muhyiddin emphasized that he still has great respect for Dr. Mahathir and, as such, has no intention of taking this issue to court.
"I have always supported his efforts to promote Malay unity, and we are close. Therefore, I have no intention to take him to court."