In a text message to FMT, Muhyiddin said: “I strongly deny that I have signed a statutory declaration on supporting Anwar to be PM which has gone viral.” He also posted a statement on Facebook.

Another near-identical sworn statement, purportedly made by Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, was also circulated online.

However Zahid told FMT there was no such thing. “This is a malicious lie (fitnah). I just saw it. Those behind this are out to ‘kacau’ me. Not from me at all,” he said.

The two statements, dated July 2, said Muhyiddin and Zahid would “fully comply” with whatever decision made by Anwar to ensure a smooth succession to Mahathir, and in accordance with a timeframe previously agreed on.

Last month, Mahathir reiterated that he would hand over the reins to Anwar “preferably in two years or so” but added that “the timeframe is not very specific”.

On June 23, the PKR leadership council also reaffirmed its support for the succession plan. Anwar said at the time that the party does not feel such a reaffirmation was necessary, “but because of the continuous questions on the issue, we find it necessary to reaffirm our position and express our satisfaction with the ongoing process.”