In rare sight, PAS Youth muktamar opens with multiracial drum show

The PAS Youth's annual muktamar, an event of the Islamic party, commenced on a unique note today with a multiracial drum performance that marked a rare sight at the assembly. The performance was a harmonious blend of traditional drums from Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Thai cultures, orchestrated by troupes from various parts of Kelantan.

This was markedly different from past muktamar openings, especially considering PAS's identity as a Malay-Muslim party. The performance seemed to be an effort to enhance PAS's image among non-Muslim communities, according to a PAS central committee member.

Ahmad Marzuk Shaary, a PAS central committee member, emphasized that cultural differences should not obstruct cooperation and close ties but should instead be viewed as strengths, particularly when different communities find common ground. He illustrated his point with an analogy: just as the Chinese drum and Malay ubi rebana, with their distinct sounds and playing styles, can create a harmonious rhythm when played together, so too can people of different cultural backgrounds unite for a shared purpose.

The event was inaugurated by PAS deputy president Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man and youth leaders from various Perikatan Nasional components and Umno, indicating a broader coalition behind the occasion.