Supporters of Kedah Menteri Besar Mukhriz Mahathir has responded in force to a coup attempt against him, turning up in large numbers at Bangunan Tunku Alor Setar, where the Kedah Umno headquarters is housed.

Loud chants of "Hidup Mukhriz" can be heard from the crowd of over 1,000 people as some held up banners urging for Mukhriz to be retained.

Some have also turned their anger at Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak, chanting "Hancur Najib".

Mukhriz arrived at around 9.50pm to loud cheers as the crowd surrounded him and tried to shake his hand.

Earlier today, the Kedah Umno faction aligned to Najib, led by state deputy chief Ahmad Bashah Md Hanipah who was backed by several senior leaders, announced a loss in confidence in Mukhriz's leadership.

Ahmad Bashah also urged Najib to intervene and replace Mukhriz as menteri besar.

The move is seen as paving the way for Najib to strike back at former premier Mahathir Mohamad, who is Mukhriz's father.

Mahathir, who enjoys strong support in his home state of Kedah, has mounted a relentless campaign to oust Najib as prime minister after alleging several wrongdoings.

'As long as the rakyat supports me I will stay'

When Muhkriz came out of the building at 11.30pm, the crowd was in a frenzy, shouting "Muhkriz! Muhkriz!".

His supporters pushed and shoved aggressively to get a glimpse of the man of the hour but he appeared cool, smiling away as he was escorted to the car.

They shouted "lawan tetap lawan" - Pakatan Rakyat/Harapan's clarion call for Anwar Ibrahim and PAS' "Takbir!".

He was flanked by his wife and his comrades. When he reached his car, Muhkriz decided to speak to his fans:

"I thank all of you because some said earlier that I did not have any support.

"As long as the rakyat supports me I will stay.

"Please remain calm and patient. Everything that happens happens for a reason.

"This is a normal challenge. We pray for good things to come and for Kedah to remain peaceful and prosperous", he said as he entered his car and was driven away.