1-7-2023 (KUALA LUMPUR) Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasized that winning the upcoming state elections is not only about political victory but also about safeguarding Malaysia from the dangers of religious bigotry. The Prime Minister expressed concern over the views propagated by leaders of the Islamic party PAS, highlighting their potential harm to the nation.
“These statements made by PAS leaders are not just a political narrative; they pose a real danger to the country,” Anwar remarked. “When we challenge their views, their leaders question why we cannot discuss matters related to race and accuse us of disrespecting the ulama (Islamic scholars).”
Anwar revealed that he has instructed colleagues from both the Pakatan Harapan coalition and the United Malays National Organization (Umno) to address this issue seriously. He stressed that the goal is not merely to secure victory in the elections but to protect the nation from religious intolerance.
PAS leaders have raised nonsensical issues, such as claiming that Prophet Adam landed on Gunung Jerai (Mount Jerai), without any objection from the ulama within the party, Anwar pointed out. “Regardless of whom you support, there are certain issues and facts that must be acknowledged,” he stated. “This is blatant nonsense that is tolerated due to ignorance, as loyalty to the party seems to take precedence over loyalty to the religion. If one is truly committed to the teachings of Islam, such behavior should not be tolerated.”
Regarding the upcoming state polls, Anwar expressed satisfaction at seeing PAS representatives attending the event he was present at. When questioned about the prospects of winning state seats in Permatang Pauh, a constituency that used to be a stronghold for his family, the Prime Minister expressed confidence, saying that with the grace of God, they would emerge victorious.
The three state seats in focus – Seberang Jaya, Permatang Pasir, and Penanti – were previously won by the Pakatan coalition.
During his speech at Masjid Jamek An-Nur Kampung Guar Perahu in Kubang Semang, Seberang Prai, Anwar urged the public to make their own assessments of the government’s performance, particularly in the face of information overload. He called on citizens to make informed decisions and critically evaluate all the information they encounter. Anwar acknowledged that he, like any other individual, may have his flaws and weaknesses that he is unaware of. He emphasized that resorting to insults and slander is not the way forward, especially when one does not possess all the facts.
“It is the people who should decide for themselves when confronted with baseless allegations about the government,” Anwar concluded.
