YOURSAY | PAS' evolution from 'lebai' to statesmen a pipe dream

The Ulama Wing of PAS has called for the party to evolve from a "lebai" party catering to only one race to a birthplace of statesmen. However, this call clashes with PAS's actual track record. The Ulama Wing chief admitted that PAS is a "lebai party" as it only caters to one race and has a narrow political vision. This is unlike the opposition DAP, which is seen as more inclusive.

PAS's leaders have been criticized for failing to prove their ability to manage or grow the economy. Economic performance in PAS-led states in Malaysia remains mixed, generally lagging behind the national average in GDP per capita and grappling with higher poverty rates. While Kedah has shown improvements, it is largely due to external factors rather than PAS's own economic policies.

The Ulama Wing's call for PAS to evolve sounds noble, but it faces significant challenges. PAS has not demonstrated strong business acumen or credible leadership in economic policy. Moreover, the party's focus on identity politics based on race and religion is seen as regressive and damaging to Malaysia's multicultural and multifaith social fabric.