PUTRAJAYA: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has revealed that he was informed about the 'Dubai Move' as early as their flight to the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
"We received intelligence reports, but we must maintain 'husnuzon' (positive assumptions) in situations like this.
"The crucial factor here is when the people entrust parties to lend support to the elected members of parliament, yet the unity government boasts support exceeding a two-thirds majority," he said at a press conference today.
Zahid criticised the move to topple the unity government, describing it as a waste of time, and emphasised that the priority should be on strengthening the economy.
The Barisan Nasional chairman said the individuals involved must wait until the 16th General Election if they intend to topple the government.
Zahid highlighted that any decision made must comply with the anti-party hopping act and required a significant decision from the party, not solely based on sworn statements.
However, Zahid refrained from disclosing the names of individuals involved in the said move.
"As they are well aware, it requires a significant decision from the party, and it involves a decision in an en bloc.
"God willing, the current government will prioritise strengthening the economy, assisting the people, and continuing to demonstrate the stability of the country under the leadership of Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim as the Prime Minister," he said.
When questioned about the motive behind Community Communications Department (J-KOM) deputy director (community communications) Datuk Ismail Yusop revealing the move, Zahid responded, "Ask him."
On Saturday, Community Communications Department (J-KOM) deputy director (community communications) Datuk Ismail Yusop claimed that opposition members of parliament, including some MPs linked to the government, were orchestrating a plot to bring down the unity government.
He claimed that this came about following a visit to Dubai by the MPs. He also claimed that "agents" were actively trying to convince people that by early 2024, the Madani government would collapse completely with a specified date and deadline.
Prior to that, messages about a closed-door meeting involving Perikatan Nasional MPs and two Barisan Nasional (BN) MPs in Dubai went viral on social media.