Muhyiddin Yassin's challenge to take legal action against Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak may have been spurred by emotions and the desire to gain publicity.

Umno vice-president Hishammuddin Hussein said the action of the former deputy prime minister was probably a publicity stunt.

"Muhyiddin has to prove that his statement is not baseless, before anyone denies it and brings it to court," he told reporters after launching the Johor Baru Umno division delegates meeting today.

Also present at the event was its division chief, Shahrir Abdul Samad.

Hishammuddin, who is also defence minister, reminded certain quarters that any accusations hurled should be based on facts and supported by evidence.

He was commenting on Muhyiddin's statement two days ago, challenging Najib to sue if the alleged corruption involving 1MDB was false.

- Bernama