PAS is taking a more conciliatory stance after being seen as the key factor behind MCA’s decision not to join Perikatan Nasional yesterday.
PAS stated today that it is prepared to speak with all parties, MCA included, to address any “confusion” surrounding the opposition party’s stance and policies.
PAS information chief Ahmad Fadhli Shaari said views about PAS should be clarified openly rather than shaped by “incomplete perceptions.”
Speaking to Malaysiakini today, Fadhli (above) said PAS has taken note of the statement made by MCA president Wee Ka Siong during his policy speech at the party’s annual general assembly yesterday.
“Any views on PAS should be clarified through open dialogue, not through incomplete perceptions.
“I would like to emphasise that we (PAS) are always ready to hold discussions with any party to explain our policies and clear up any misunderstandings.
“MCA itself has previously worked with PAS in the PN government and knows closely PAS’ approach when governing,” he said when contacted.
Yesterday, Malaysiakini reported that MCA may choose its own path if BN maintains its current stance of cooperating with Pakatan Harapan in the next general election.
‘Door for dialogue always open’
According to Wee, BN will not be able to grow within the current coalition government framework.
However, Wee - one of only two MCA representatives in the Dewan Rakyat - said he does not believe that joining PN is a suitable option for the party because of PAS’ involvement.
Wee stated that most Chinese voters cannot accept the Islamist party due to some of its leaders frequently issuing controversial statements reflecting their religious conservatism.
He also believed that PAS often offends non-Muslim communities.
The MCA president also fired shots at Harapan in his speech, particularly towards DAP, which is a component of the current government coalition.
According to Fadhli, during their previous time together in the PN government, there were never any major conflicts between PAS and MCA that escalated into open disputes.
This situation, said the Pasir Mas MP, is different from what is being seen among the ruling parties today, where public debates often become unproductive.
“Our previous experience governing together should form the basis for understanding that PAS is not a party that is hostile to any race or religion, and in fact always chooses dialogue and harmony in resolving differences.
“If misunderstandings or doubts still exist, PAS’ doors are always open for dialogue,” he said.
‘Both reject extremism’
Kelantan PAS senator Nik Abduh Nik Abdul Aziz has also taken a diplomatic stance towards MCA.
The former PAS Youth chief and PAS central committee member said he sees similarities between PAS and MCA as both parties reject “extremism”.
Nik Abduh is believed to be referring to DAP, which they often label as extreme.
“MCA doubts PAS because it is extreme. PAS rejects cooperation with extremist parties. Both reject extremism.
“The solution is to have more discussions,” he said briefly. - Mkini
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