By G. Manimaran - The Malaysian InsiderKUALA LUMPUR, Feb 2 — PAS has set a five-year timeline to open full party membership to all Malaysians — however the 59-year-old party will not compromise Islam as its core principle.
The Pakatan Rakyat party is expected to complete the process after the next general election.
“Of course PAS will remain an Islamic party,” said PAS’s National Unity Committee chairman Dr. Mujahid Yusuf Rawa (pic).
Speaking to Harakah Daily, Mujahid added, “But we recognise that we are in a multiracial country.”
“Therefore we hope in the next five years, after resolving concerns we can invite all those who share our aspirations Muslims or not to become PAS members.”
Mujahid issued the statement a month after PAS central committee endorsed the constitutional draft which upgraded PAS Supporters Club to become a Supporters Congress of Assembly.
It will have leadership structures at national, state and division level, but no voting power in the party main or access to contest for main party posts.
The upgrade was does not involve any amendments to PAS’s main constitution.
PAS Supporters Club — formed in 2004 — has more than 20,000, made of Indians, Chinese, Siamese and Ibans.
The new congress’ chief will be assisted by a deputy, five vice-presidents, secretary, treasurer and 18 committee members, with youth and women’s wings.
Vice-president Salahuddin Ayub is adviser to the new body.
PAS put up its first non-Muslim candidate in Election 2008.
“Communal politics is outdated and is opposed to Islamic teachings,” said Mujahid.
“We need a new model which will allow all Malaysians to participate in PAS without the party losing its focus and Islamic spine.
“It that possible? We are confident it is. Just look at our Supporters Club.
“It’s a success and that is why we’ve upgraded it into a congress. This new body should gear itself for the final step. PAS is for all,” said the Parit Buntar MP.
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