Takiyuddin refuses to retract 'munafik' remark, seeks mediation with Rayer

PETALING JAYA: Perikatan Nasional secretary-general Takiyuddin Hassan has refused to retract his remarks containing the word "munafik", or hypocrite, made during the 2027 budget debate. Instead, he has written to Dewan Rakyat Speaker Johari Abdul, requesting mediation to resolve the matter, as reported by Sinar Harian. The Kota Bharu MP proposed that the speaker convene Jelutong MP RSN Rayer and Takiyuddin Hassan for an amicable discussion.

If Johari declines Takiyuddin's mediation request, the PAS leader admitted that he may face referral to the Parliament's rights and privileges committee. The remarks, delivered during the budget debate, led to protests from Rayer, who accused Takiyuddin of going too far by accusing Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and the budget of being hypocrites.

Johari had previously ordered Takiyuddin to retract the remarks by Thursday, but the former minister did not comply. Additionally, Takiyuddin stated that the Perikatan Nasional party has yet to decide on contesting the upcoming Sarawak state election, with the legislative assembly set to dissolve on Monday. The coalition's current focus is preparing for the November 14 Melaka polls.