PAS spiritual leader Datuk Hashim Jasin has affirmed that the party remains reliant on Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang’s leadership but will accept any decision by the veteran president to step down if necessitated by health concerns.
Speaking following Hadi’s recent heart surgery at the National Heart Institute, Hashim confirmed that while Hadi’s condition is improving, he remains under close medical supervision.
“I was told that his movement is currently limited, and visits are restricted. Only close family members and a few top party leaders are allowed to see him,” New Straits Times quioted him saying.
On speculation surrounding Hadi’s possible resignation, Hashim stated, “Pas continues to require his leadership. However, if it is fated that he has to withdraw due to illness or any health issues, we will accept it.”
He emphasised that any potential successor must be a religious scholar in line with the party’s foundational principles.
“As mentioned by Pas vice-president Datuk Mohd Amar Abdullah, any successor should be from among the ulama. I believe we currently have several leaders within Pas who fit that criteria,” he said, without naming anyone.
Talk of Hadi’s possible retirement surfaced after reports suggested he had indicated a willingness to step down during a Pas retreat in Kuala Terengganu on 6 June. The report was swiftly denied by Pas deputy president Datuk Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man.
Hadi, who has led the Islamist party since 2002, is one of Malaysia’s longest-serving political leaders. Pas, which adheres to an ulama-led leadership structure, has consistently prioritised clerical authority in its internal succession planning. - June 24, 2025
