Don't make ummah unity exclusive, PAS says as Umno sidelines Wawasan

 

Days after Umno signalled its preference for electoral cooperation with PAS rather than the wider Perikatan Nasional coalition, the Islamist party today urged its former Muafakat Nasional ally to broaden its horizons and embrace inclusivity.

PAS deputy president Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man reminded Umno that its aim to unite the ummah - referring to Malays and Muslims in Malaysia - must be built within a larger framework beyond the two parties.

This comes as Umno appeared to shun a key PAS ally in PN, Wawasan Negara, which is perceived as having territorial overlap with the Malay nationalist party.

During the Umno general assembly, a party delegate representing the Kedah Umno chapter openly insulted Wawasan, branding it a "parti kucing" (small fry).

In a statement, Tuan Ibrahim said it's undeniable that PAS and Umno are the main forces in Malay-Muslim politics and have important positions and influence to serve as the ummah unity agenda's axis.

"However, if the idea of unity is limited to cooperation between these two parties, we may inadvertently marginalise other groups that also have roles and influence in society.

"That is why the consensus must be broadened. The unity of the ummah must be able to embrace other parties that are prepared to accept the principles and objectives of a shared struggle.

"The interests of Malays and Muslims, national stability and the well-being of all Malaysians should be the goals that unite all these forces," he said.

New political framework

Tuan Ibrahim further advised Umno to accept that Malaysia's political landscape has changed, and differences between parties should not be a stumbling block for their unity plan.

The Kubang Kerian MP said they should pursue a new political framework willing to address major problems plaguing the country, including extremely racist politics, weak national unity, corruption, and moral decay among leaders.

PAS and Umno must also realise there is fear among certain segments of society over Islamic-based political alliances, and work toward addressing the issue, he said.

"The unity of the ummah cannot stop at bringing PAS and Umno together. The two can serve as the axis, but their strength will only be complete when the consensus is broadened, differences are managed with wisdom, and all forces that accept the shared principles of the struggle are embraced.

"Ultimately, the goal is not simply a party victory, but to build a Malaysia that is just, stable, and prosperous, with Islam as a guide and a source of mercy for all its people," Tuan Ibrahim said. - Mkini