In response to calls for him to be deported to India, controversial Muslim preacher Zakir Naik has dismissed accusations of extremism made against him and thanked the Malaysian government for allowing him to stay in the country.

This came after Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad reiterated his stand yesterday not to deport Zakir to his home country of India, where he is wanted by authorities.

The prime minister said the preacher, who is a permanent resident of Malaysia, had not broken any law.