Deputy Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin has urged Umno to steer clear of racism and extremism, and instead remain moderate.

He said racism and extremism could destroy the foundations of Malaysia which had been laid down by past leaders and is enshrined in the Federal Constitution.

"Umno's stance all this while, which is balanced and moderate in managing racial and religious ties must be defended because we are not a Malay party that is racist, nor are we an Islamic party that is old-fashioned and extreme," Muhyiddin ( photo ) was quoted as saying in a Bernama report yesterday.

Muhyiddin, who is also Umno deputy president, said besides defending the Malays and Islam, Umno must also protect the legitimate rights of other races, and ensure their religious freedom.

Stay on balanced track

"I believe as long as we stay on a balanced track, then we will succeed in maintaining national unity, and our party, Umno, will continue to be respected and trusted by Malaysians.

"The people are monitoring which direction Umno is headed to, will Umno become an Islamic Malay party that is moderate and progressive or become a racist and extreme party," he said.

Muhyiddin's comments come days after Umno secretary-general Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor reminded party members that Malaysia is a multiracial country.

Tengku Adnan had sent this reminder to Umno members who were involved in April 19 protest outside a church in Taman Medan.

The deputy prime minister also echoed comments made by Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak's supporter, former deputy higher education minister Saifuddin Abdullah, that the ruling party needs to remain moderate in order to win the next general election.