KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian United Democratic Alliance (MUDA) president Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman should be welcomed as the new member of the "court cluster", says Umno supreme council member Datuk Dr Puad Zarkashi.

Following the High Court's decision today on Syed Saddiq's trial, Puad questioned whether the former youth and sports minister's focus would be shifted this coming 15th General Election (GE15).

"Of course, Syed Saddiq said it was a selective prosecution by the Muhyiddin government. Will he prioritise competing for GE15 or clear his name first?

"Being young does not necessarily make one an adult. A great orator does not necessarily make a great politician. Remember, do good within reason, and don't do evil at all. 

"Young, but already party-hopping, keeping millions of ringgit, and lying. In the end, begs to be given a safe seat. Where is the MUDA in it?

Syed Saddiq had earlier been ordered to enter his defence on all four charges involving criminal breach of trust, misappropriation of assets and money laundering.

High Court judicial commissioner Datuk Azhar Abdul Hamid said the prosecution had successfully adduced credible evidence proving each essential ingredient of the offences.

He said a prima facie case had therefore been made out against the accused and Syed Saddiq was then ordered to enter his defence.