KUALA LUMPUR, April 26 -- A political spat has escalated after a Melaka assemblyman hit back at Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor over remarks describing him as a "budak catur" or chess piece.

The criticism came amid ongoing political tensions and court cases involving DAP leaders, and Merlimau assemblyman Datuk Dr Akmal Saleh said he would not back down legally if required.

"So if it goes to court, we can still fight, but YAB says we are chess pieces, so be it," Dr Akmal said in a Facebook post today, seemingly in response to Sanusi.

Dr Akmal also accused Rembia assemblyman Datuk Muhammad Jailani Khamis of neglecting his state legislative duties, alleging attendance issues despite being present at political events ...