PAS does not need manifesto pledge on gambling ban, says Kedah MB

Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor clarified that the Pas party does not need to explicitly include its opposition to gambling in the election manifesto, as the stance is already ingrained in the party’s core principles, according to Clause 5 of the Pas Constitution. Sanusi, who is the central election director of Pas, emphasized that the public should turn to effort, prayer, and trust in God for success, rather than relying on gambling.

He urged people to abstain from gambling and avoid relying on luck for a comfortable life. Sanusi stressed that the party’s stance on prohibiting gambling is based on Islamic principles and remains unchanged, regardless of whether it is included in the manifesto or not. He responded to a challenge from Perlis Mufti Datuk Mohd Asri Zainul Abidin, who urged Pas to include gambling and alcohol in the manifesto.

Sanusi argued that a manifesto serves as a party’s offer to voters, not a restatement of policies or principles already established in its constitution. He questioned the necessity of including such matters in the manifesto and pointed out that Islam explicitly prohibits gambling. When discussing gambling premises, Sanusi stated that the state government is awaiting further developments, including potential legal proceedings should gambling operators seek compensation through the courts.