PAS clamour on gambling punctured by Tabung Haji silence

PAS ulama council information chief Nor Hamzah is urging Muslim voters to support the Islamic party in forming the next federal government so it can abolish gambling entirely. This demand is ironic, however, because PAS was part of the federal government led by Muhyiddin Yassin and didn't attempt to ban gambling at that time. In 2021, the government permitted gaming companies to hold 22 "special draws" for 4D numbers in addition to the regular thrice-weekly draws, ostensibly to boost government revenue during the Covid-19 pandemic.

However, when Anwar Ibrahim took office, his administration limited gaming companies to only eight "special draws" yearly from 2023. Supporters might wonder whether PAS's inability to abolish gambling then indicates it could not do so if it were to form the government. Additionally, if Anwar's government managed to reduce the number of special draws, wouldn't it be preferable to support him instead?

PAS should shift its focus from lotteries to the Tabung Haji scandal affecting Muslims nationwide. Unfortunately, PAS's MPs walked out during the special Dewan Rakyat sitting on the royal commission of inquiry report on Tabung Haji, thus failing to address the issue despite claiming to protect Muslim interests. This failure stands in contrast to opposition MP Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman, who remained in the lower house during the debate on Tabung Haji, demonstrating a commitment to the cause.

Voters may consider asking two more questions: first, if PAS could not voice its opinions on crucial matters affecting the Muslim community, would it be able to do so if in power? Second, given that Syed Saddiq participated in the debate on Tabung Haji, even if not with a saintly demeanor, wouldn't he be a better investment than PAS?

Ultimately, safeguarding Muslim interests is essential, but it must be matched with action. Clement Stanley, an FMT reader, shares these views.