Pas says foreign policy questions do not mean it is ignoring Tabung Haji RCI

Kota Baru: Pas has refuted allegations that the party is giving precedence to foreign policy matters over the Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) into the Tabung Haji (TH). Their Secretary-General, Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan, clarified that Pas' inquiries into foreign policy, especially concerning China and Taiwan, did not signify a disregard for the Tabung Haji RCI.

He emphasized that as a political entity, Pas reserves the right to express dissent and critique government policies, including foreign affairs. The Taiwan-China issue is a foreign policy matter, and Pas, as a political party in Malaysia, retains the right to articulate its stance and challenge specific policies.

Hassan elaborated on Malaysia's foreign policy, which historically has been characterized by neutrality and non-intervention in other nations' internal affairs. He referenced the approach taken during former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad's administration, noting that Malaysia refrained from interfering in the China-Taiwan matter or the Russia-related conflict. Instead, Malaysia opted for maintaining ties with the parties involved to facilitate a resolution.

Hassan questioned whether the current government's approach signifies a shift in Malaysia's foreign policy and urged the administration to provide explanations. Regarding the Tabung Haji RCI, Pas has devised its strategy, anticipating a suitable time to address the matter. If no further developments transpire, the debate on the Tabung Haji RCI is scheduled for October.

Pas is aware of the narrative being propagated by Pakatan Harapan concerning the Tabung Haji RCI and intends to engage in the debate then, encompassing related policies and issues. This assertion comes after PKR Youth information chief Danish Hairudin criticized Pas for lecturing Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on foreign policy while neglecting the Tabung Haji RCI report's concerns.

In response, Danish accused Pas of displaying eagerness to advise Anwar on Malaysia's diplomatic stance over the China-Taiwan issue.