TASEK GELUGOR – Penang Perikatan Nasional has welcomed PAS’ call for all parties to support a new pact led by Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.
Describing it as wise, chapter chairman Datuk Shabudin Yahaya said the Islamist party has its own approach to handling its relationship with PN and Muafakat Nasional, the alliance it is in with Umno.
“It is a positive and good stance, but between PAS and MN, I believe PAS has its own strategy and approach to be resolved with MN. So far, so good.
“That’s why if we look at the prime minister’s statement, he’s just relaxed. We will face anything. If you want to come, the door is still open,” he told the media after attending a key handover ceremony at SMK Tasek Gelugor here today.
He said Bersatu is organising to face the 15th general election, and prioritising the people’s interests.
“We are not worried or confused. We are organising all the work, and what’s most important is to put the interests of the people first, as recommended by the prime minister.”
PAS president Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang yesterday stressed that his party rejects cooperation that deviates from MN’s original goal.
He said it also rejects any form of consensus that leads to disunity, and groups that show no loyalty to the country and comprise extremists with views challenging race and religion.
His statement gives the impression that PAS is inclined towards Bersatu rather than Umno, and comes as several leaders from the Barisan Nasional lynchpin urged his party to choose its ally ahead of GE15.
Shabudin refuted Balik Pulau Umno chief Datuk Shah Headan Ayoob’s claim of Bersatu pinching Umno members in Penang.
Describing the allegation as baseless, he said people have the right to become a member of any political party they choose after having made an assessment.
“Whether they want to join Bersatu, we cannot say that the member was pinched. Can it be proven?
“It is not fair to accuse us of poaching members. I advise Umno to reassure its members with its commitment and struggle.”
Last month, Shah Headan said there have been moves by Bersatu for months to lure Umno members to cross over.
He said this has taken place in most Umno divisions nationwide, and the main reason for the party’s strained relationship with Bersatu. – The Vibes, April 3, 2021
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