PHUKET: With the national election in the bag, a golfing holiday on Phuket mixed with official talks is being enjoyed by Malaysia's Deputy PM, Tan Sri Noh Bin Mohamed Yasin.

The Malaysian politician, who is also Education Minister, arrived on Phuket yesterday and will be on Phuket until Sunday.

An official welcome is being held at the Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort and Spa in Karon, on Phuket's west coast, this afternoon.

Tonight Mr Muhyiddin dines with Phuket Vice Governor Dr Sommai Preechasin and other officials at a popular seafood restaurant on Phuket's east coast.

It's believed Mr Muhyiddin will also celebrate a birthday while on Phuket.

Mr Muhyiddin is also the Deputy President of the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO), the main component party of the ruling Barisan Nasional coalition.

The coalition was returned in a national vote earlier this month despite protests about the fixing of electorate borders to maximise UMNO's long-held power.

It will be five years before Malaysia goes to the polls again.