KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 21 — Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin claimed today that his newly formed Parti Pribumi Bersatu is more open than Barisan Nasional (BN) parties as it allowed non-Bumiputera applicants to be associate members.

"Our party is inclusive. We don’t limit our membership. We are more inclusive and open and we are ready to accept anyone not counting their background.

"Why don’t you ask why Umno, MIC ... why they have not opened up associate membership?,” Muhyiddin questioned reporters during a press conference today.

The former deputy prime minister added that associate members in Parti Pribumi would stand a chance to have high-ranking positions in the party if they prove themselves worthy.

"In our constitution, any associate members can also contribute fully to the party if they show interest and give ideas for the betterment of country,” Muhyiddin said.

Former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad who is also the protem chairman for Parti Pribumi added that many non-Bumiputera have expressed interest in joining the party as associate members.

"A lot of non-Malays have told me personally that they support and they would like to join the party.

"That is why we have a provision for associate members,” he stressed.

Despite that, Dr Mahathir said there will be certain restrictions towards associate members which he claimed was normal for any party but did not elaborate on what they might be.

"They would not have certain powers given to the normal members. This is normal in any organisation.

"Associate members have do not have full rights like the ordinary members,” the 91-year old explained.

Muhyiddin previously said Parti Pribumi’s purpose will be to defend Islam and the Bumiputera.

The Pagoh MP added that non-Bumiputera may join the party, although they will be restricted to a second-tier membership that does not permit them to contest for party positions.

"Bersatu’s membership is open for all Bumiputera citizens as well as Orang Asli, those from Sabah and Sarawak as stated in the Federal Constitution.

"It is open to the rest as associate members; they also have same rights as normal members except to vote and contest for party positions although they can be appointed,” he told reporters after submitting the registration documents for the new party to the Registrar of Societies earlier this month.