PAS warns of disciplinary action over insensitive remarks
PETALING JAYA : PAS says it will not hesitate to take disciplinary action against any of its members who engage in insensitive behaviour that undermines national unity and fosters disharmony.
PAS secretary-general Takiyuddin Hassan said a controversial Facebook post by a division chief regarding newly promoted lieutenant-general Johnny Lim was completely against the party's stance.
Lim's promotion made him the first senior Malaysian Chinese officer to attain the three-star rank, and Takiyuddin stressed that the appointment was a historic event that should be celebrated by all Malaysians.
'Diversity and differences in background should never be used as a reason or justification to treat any member of society unfairly,' he said in a statement tonight.
'Nor should they be used as grounds to deny progress, opportunities, achievements, abilities, or the legitimate aspirations of any individual or group.
'Racism or racial attitudes in any form or colour have no place in PAS and are incompatible with the nation's broader cultural values and national aspirations.'
Yesterday, Sungai Buloh PAS chief Zaharudin Muhammad speculated in a Facebook post about Malaysia having its first Chinese prime minister in the next 30 to 40 years.
The post included a screenshot of a news report on Lim's promotion to lieutenant-general, with a caption stating that the image was merely for decorative purposes.
Zaharudin has since said the image of Lim had no connection to the 'satirical message' in his posting, which drew a public backlash. The post has since been deleted.
Takiyuddin said the post was in complete contradiction to official policies, resolutions and vision of PAS, as outlined in its constitution, resolutions of its annual general meetings, party meetings or official statements.
He said PAS remains committed to upholding the principles and realities of Malaysia's ethnic and religious diversity, which is a 'unique and valuable' feature of Malaysian society that must be 'nurtured carefully'.
Takiyuddin said PAS clearly demonstrated this when it agreed to amend the party's constitution to allow non-Muslims to become members of the Islamic party.
'The talent, achievements, progress and success of any Malaysian in any field should be a cause for collective celebration, not the opposite.
'PAS extends its congratulations to lieutenant-general Lim,' he said.
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