“Nevertheless, there is no doubt they will be far-reaching and will have a long-term impact on our political landscape.

“We are witnessing a sea change in Malaysian politics. The old walls of division built upon years of politicking are finally collapsing.

“The announcement today by Tun Mahathir, who has been instrumental in bringing Umno to the pinnacle of power and success, means that he has finally turned his back on his party.”

Mahathir quit the party claiming that Umno was now serving its president, Najib Razak.

“All the institutions of constitutional democracy had been violated to an unprecedented level and the mother of all financial scandals has broken loose with the perpetrators going about with absolute impunity.

“The fundamental principles of governance such as accountability and transparency have been turned upside down. Never in the history of our country has so much damage been wrought by so few.

“As a result, the citizens are paying a heavy price for the crimes of corruption and the abuse of power in Putrajaya,” Azmin, who is also Selangor Menteri Besar, claimed.

He called upon all Malaysians, regardless of political affiliation, race, creed or religion, to seize the moment and bring about real and effective change.