‘Warlike posturing’ in PAS parade sends wrong image of Islam, says minister

 

Na’im Mokhtar said all parties have obligations to ensure peace and harmony and avoid any public unrest at all costs. (Bernama pic)

PETALING JAYA: The warlike posturing displayed by members of Terengganu PAS Youth in their Himpunan Pemuda Islam Terengganu (Himpit) parade could send a wrong image of Islam and the country, says religious affairs minister Na’im Mokhtar.

Na’im said it would be better if the parade organiser showcased the Islamic values of peace, unity and well-being.

“I was informed about a youth assembly programme that involved a parade where the Islamic religious symbols were displayed. The parade created various perceptions and frustrations in society,” he said in a statement.

“In my opinion, parading in such a way is unnecessary and could send a wrong image of Islam and the country.

“All parties have obligations to ensure peace and harmony in the society (and) any action that could create public unrest should be avoided at all costs.”

Na’im also said the religious affairs department felt that this issue needed to be left to the authorities to investigate and take action if the organisers had broken any law.

Terengganu PAS Youth has defended its parade saying it was similar to cosplay events held annually, and emphasised that it was never intended to incite violence.

The warlike posturing in the parade drew criticisms from the public, as well as from Terengganu Pakatan Harapan and MCA. - FMT