Azmin says nothing behind Morocco holiday snap with Hisham

Mohamed Azmin Ali has dismissed claims of him going on holiday in Morocco with former Umno vice-president Hishammuddin Hussein.

Speaking to reporters today, the PKR deputy president said he only merely bumped into Hishammuddin in Marrakesh.

"I did not go on holiday with Hishammuddin, I only bumped into him in Morocco.

"I met with many Malaysians in Morocco. I met with Malaysian students and tourists. There is no issue," he told a press conference after launching a ceremony to hand over house keys to homeowners in Semenyih today.

Azmin, the economic affairs minister, was commenting on a recent viral photo of his and Hishammuddin's families taken in Marrakesh, which gave rise to speculation that the two leaders had planned a vacation together. 

The photo, which was accompanied by the caption "Our families reunited," had been uploaded onto Twitter by Azmin's son Ameer, but was later taken down.

Ameer was also reported to have uploaded a video – also since removed – of the two families enjoying a meal together at a holiday resort in the city.

'No discussions'

Azmin stressed that he has long been friends with Hishammuddin, and refuted claims that the meeting involved any political discussions. 

"The friendship between us begun many years ago, it is nothing new.

"If you remember, when I was still in the opposition, I was the only opposition leader who attended the wedding ceremony of Hishammuddin's eldest daughter at the Shangri-La Hotel.

"So we have to be more civilised. Do not assume that whenever we meet there must be a political discussion. There was none," he insisted.

Asked if his friendship with Hishammuddin might translate into future political cooperation, Azmin said good ties must be maintained with everyone for the country's benefit.

"For the good of the country, we have to be on good terms with everybody. 

"We need to be more inclusive," he said. - Mkini