‘Is Kedah to be an Islamic state?’

ALOR STAR – A war of words erupted in the Kedah assembly today over the PAS-led state government’s decision to no longer issue permits to gambling businesses. 

Mohd Azam Abd Samat (Sg Limau-PAS) had to answer the criticism hurled at his party and state government after he expressed support for the new policy.

He was interrupted by Ooi Tze Min (Bakar Arang-PH) who said the state government’s decision was unwise.

“I’m not a gambler and I also don’t like gambling. But the decision announced by the menteri besar is not good because it will only benefit illegal gambling,” said Ooi.

Tan Kok Yew (Derga-DAP) then asked Azam for evidence and data if gambling was the cause of the collapse of family institutions in the state as said by Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor.

Azam, however, sidestepped the request and instead said he is confident that the new policy has the support of the Muslims on the opposition bench.

To prove his point, Azam called on all state assemblymen who supported the policy to stand up and express their support.

However, opposition assemblymen did not heed his call, instead looking hesitant to get up from their seats. 

Former menteri besar Datuk Seri Mukhriz Mahathir (Jitra-Pejuang) then asked Azam if the state government intended to declare Kedah an Islamic state and one only for Muslims.

Azam said he is convinced that the issue of gambling is a moral problem and that all religions prohibited such unhealthy activities.

“We are a plural society. I’m not sure if there is a religion that allows gambling, but we all know that it’s a moral issue.

“The answer can be asked to the relevant exco, and I just want to discuss what was announced by the menteri besar yesterday.”

State Speaker Datuk Juhari Bulat stepped in and put a stop to the discussion, opting to move on to other questions.

Yesterday, Sanusi said Kedah would neither issue new licenses nor renew existing ones for gambling businesses effective immediately.

Sanusi, who is also state PAS deputy commissioner, said apart from gambling licences, the state government would also restrict the sale of alcohol in public, including in duty-free Langkawi. – The Vibes, November 15, 2021