Dr Mahathir's decision expected - BN component leaders

For several Barisan Nasional (BN) component party leaders, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad quitting UMNO today was not surprising at all.

MCA deputy president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong said the former premier had always been an outspoken critic of the present leadership.

"Prior to this, he condemned Pak Lah (Abdullah Ahmad Badawi) and then resigned from UMNO. This time it's him against Najib. I am not surprised at all.

"We have to respect his decision. BN has to face its impact and move forward for the sake of development and the people's agenda," he said.

MIC president Datuk Seri Dr S. Subramaniam said the former UMNO president had the right to make his own decision.

"It was his own decision. Every member has the right to stay or quit the party," he said.

As for Malaysian Indian Muslim Congress (KIMMA) president, Datuk Seri Syed Ibrahim Syed Kader, he said Dr Mahathir was being childish and was protesting against the leadership for not meeting his demands.

"Malaysians have high respect for him but his criticisms of the leadership and decision to join an illegal rally is wrong and will not solve the problem," he added.