The move may not affect the government during the state of emergency, but an urgent motion is expected to be tabled at the ongoing general assembly.

Veteran Umno leader Shahrir Samad admits moves to ensure that delegates toe the line.

This comes amid rumours that Umno is purging the party of critics of its president.

Deputy president Mohamad Hasan says Umno respects the efforts of PAS leaders to restore ties between the party and Bersatu.

PAS Central Committee member Awang Hashim also warns Umno against working with PKR, saying this would undermine efforts towards Malay unity.

Analysts see an escalation of infighting as top leaders clash over the party's future direction and its partners-to-be.

They say they have no interest in forming an alliance with PKR leader Anwar Ibrahim despite his recent statement that his party has had negotiations with Umno leaders.

Analysts say the heavier punishments for those who violate health SOPs will likely be included in the opposition's campaign for the next general election.

This comes as tensions between Umno and PAS threaten to resurface in the wake of calls by Umno leaders for PAS to quit the Perikatan Nasional government.

This comes as a rift widens over alleged manoeuvres by Ku Nan against his deputy in Putrajaya Umno.

Communications minister Saifuddin Abdullah says the programmes implemented by the department will include every race and level of society.

Questions arise over the political future of Zahid Hamidi, who is facing a slew of criminal charges and the repercussions of several recent moves seen as having backfired.