Zairil accuses Hadi of using religious sentiment to deflect Tabung Haji scrutiny

Penang DAP vice-chairman Zairil Khir Johari has accused PAS president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang of employing religious sentiment to divert attention from potential governance and integrity issues at Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH). Zairil claimed that Hadi's characterization of the matter as an "attack on Islamic identity" was a strategy to evade scrutiny over the institution's management.

He said that using religious sentiment to shield weaknesses or misconduct not only confuses the public but also undermines the prestige of Islamic institutions. Zairil also pointed out Hadi's failure to address allegations of wrongdoing at TH, as revealed in the Royal Commission of Inquiry report. He criticized PAS and Perikatan Nasional MPs for walking out and boycotting a parliamentary motion concerning TH instead of debating the issue.

Zairil pointed out that the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission's detention and remand of former TH leaders, including a former religious affairs minister, indicated that the matter was not a "narrow political motive" but rather a case requiring accountability. He emphasized that TH is not just a financial institution; it holds the trust and aspirations of millions of Muslims.

Every ringgit in it is a result of the hard work, sacrifices, and years of savings of ordinary people striving to perform the haj. Zairil demanded that TH be fully cleansed of any wrongdoing and political manipulation, while ensuring transparent, firm, and accountable governance to uphold the people's trust.