Malaysia's Muhyiddin named PM in shock that sidelines old rivals

In a shock move, Malaysia's King has named former interior minister Muhyiddin Yassin as the new prime minister.

His decision completely sidelines old rivals - former PM Mahathir Mohamad and his on-off ally Anwar Ibrahim, even though they posed a united front.

"His majesty has decreed that the process of appointing a prime minister cannot be delayed," the statement from the palace read. "This is the best decision for all."

Muhyiddin, who set to be sworn in on Sunday, urged "all Malaysians to accept the decision announced by the national palace".

There was no immediate reaction from Mahathir, who had, on Saturday, announced he will stand for the premiership again just days after announcing he'll step down.