By Hazlin Hassan, Malaysia Correspondent

KUALA LUMPUR: Deputy Prime Minister Najib Razak yesterday slammed the Malaysiakini online newspaper for running a controversial report that he called part of an 'obvious smear campaign' against him.

The story published on Sunday evening purportedly had Datuk Seri Najib saying he would defend Malay rights with his 'last drop of blood' and that he would 'destroy' those who threaten peace and stability.

The remarks, in a manifesto purportedly from his office, was apparently aimed at undermining the multiracial credentials of Mr Najib.

'Manifesto' journalist quits

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysiakini journalist who wrote the news report about the purported manifesto by the Deputy Prime Minister has resigned. Said Ms Wong Choon Mei, who joined Malaysiakini three months ago: 'It is my fault and I stand ready to take full responsibility and resign.'

She has 10 years of experience under her belt with stints at The Edge newspaper, Reuters news agency and Channel News Asia.

Malaysiakini editor-in-chief Steven Gan said the news organisation was upset over the incident, adding the report should not have been published.

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