CONTROVERSIAL remarks made by two PAS leaders concerning Singapore’s upcoming General Election 2025 (GE2025) have drawn sharp criticism, with Amanah Youth chief Mohd Hasbie Muda warning that such statements could damage Malaysia’s diplomatic standing and regional credibility.
Hasbie said the long-standing good relations between Malaysia and Singapore must be preserved through mutual respect, diplomatic etiquette, and a shared sense of responsibility.
"In principle, commenting on political developments in other countries is not necessarily wrong," Sina Harian cited him saying in a ststement today.
"However, the issue arises when those comments are perceived as attempting to influence Singaporean voting patterns based on race and religion. This runs counter to the values of inclusive democracy that should be respected.
"Therefore, Amanah Youth reminds all parties, particularly PAS, that concern for communities abroad should never be used as a pretext to interfere in another nation’s internal political affairs," he added.
The controversy stems from Facebook posts by PAS Treasurer-General Datuk Iskandar Abdul Samad and Selangor PAS Youth Chief Mohamed Sukri Omar, which Singapore authorities have deemed as potential interference in their domestic affairs.
Singapore’s Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and Elections Department (ELD) confirmed in a joint statement on Thursday that the posts had been restricted under Section 61N of the Parliamentary Elections Act (PEA).
Harakah Daily, PAS's official media outlet, had earlier published two articles on April 22 and 23 highlighting Iskandar’s views on the Malay community in Singapore and GE2025.
Hasbie added that leadership requires sensitivity to the political and legal contexts of neighbouring countries.
"In this regard, Amanah Youth urges PAS leaders to maintain decorum in handling international matters and to prioritise regional harmony over narrow political interests.
"Malaysia must remain a trusted, respected, and reputable partner in this region," he said. - April 27, 2025
