Frequent change of govt is against Islamic values, says Kelantan cleric
PETALING JAYA : A prominent religious scholar from Kelantan has expressed hope that the unity government under Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim will remain until the end of its term.
Sheikh Wazir Che Awang Al-Makki Hafizahullah, deputy chairman of Jabhah Pondok Kelantan, warned that a frequent change of government was 'not in line with Islamic values'.
He said it could negatively affect the advancement of Islam and the economy.
He was believed to be responding to ongoing efforts by certain quarters – particularly the opposition – to topple the government through a rally scheduled for July 26.
Sheikh Wazir, who is adviser to Kesatuan Pondok Kelantan, said constant shifts in government disrupt the lives of ordinary people as well as the development of pondok schools and economic stability.
'In Malaysia, we get a new government every five years – sometimes every two, or even just one year.
'When policies keep changing, it weakens the pondok system and dampens the economy. This is not in line with Islamic values,' he said during a talk at Masjid Putra, Putrajaya, last night.
According to Sheikh Wazir, the large turnout at the religious gathering last night reflects strong support for Anwar, who has led the unity government since late 2022.
'God willing, all the challenges and obstacles facing our nation can be overcome.
'May the government led by Datuk Seri (Anwar) be preserved,' he said.
Yesterday, Anwar challenged his critics to table a vote of no confidence in the Dewan Rakyat if they wish to take over Putrajaya.
He called for those who want to topple the government to follow the proper process.
If they did not have the support in the Dewan Rakyat, he said, they must wait for the next general election instead of resorting to street demonstrations or inciting the public.
Perikatan Nasional (PN) has planned a 'Turun Anwar' mass rally for July 26 in Kuala Lumpur to push for Anwar's resignation. The organisers claim they expect up to 300,000 participants, although a similar protest in Shah Alam earlier this month drew just over 300.
Anwar also called for caution in responding to voices of hatred, including those from a handful of religious figures. However, he did not name them.
Former economy minister Rafizi Ramli has also said that Anwar should remain as prime minister until the end of his term to ensure political stability amid economic uncertainty
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