Rafizi Ramli, former Malaysian economy minister and Pandan MP, sharply criticized the opposition party PAS for its expressed interest in meeting US President Donald Trump to discuss the Palestine conflict. Speaking on a podcast, Rafizi dismissed PAS’s intentions as a publicity stunt aimed at impressing its supporters. He questioned the likelihood of Trump, expected to attend the ASEAN Summit later this month, agreeing to meet PAS secretary-general Takiyuddin Hassan.
“PAS and Takiyuddin are merely posturing for their base,” Rafizi remarked. “Even the US embassy would find this proposal laughable.”
The critique followed Takiyuddin’s announcement on Wednesday, where he voiced PAS’s readiness to engage Trump while simultaneously planning a protest against the US president’s visit for the summit. Rafizi highlighted the inconsistency, noting that politicians often make statements for attention, even if they lack substance. “It’s hard to imagine Trump taking such a meeting seriously,” he added.
Anwar Defends Diplomatic Approach
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, addressing the controversy surrounding Trump’s invitation, defended Malaysia’s decision to host the US president. He emphasized Malaysia’s consistent advocacy for Palestine and Gaza, stating that the government would leverage diplomatic channels to advance this cause. Anwar also underscored the need for pragmatic diplomacy, balancing Malaysia’s economic interests—particularly in high-tech exports—with its principled stance.
“Malaysia must be strategic in building alliances,” Anwar said, highlighting the importance of maintaining constructive international relations while championing Palestinian rights.
Bersatu’s Internal Rift: A Political Spectacle
In a separate discussion, Rafizi commented on the ongoing feud within Bersatu, another opposition party, between leaders Wan Saiful Wan Jan and Azmin Ali. Describing such conflicts as a natural part of Malaysia’s political landscape, Rafizi suggested the public view it as entertainment. “Politicians are allies one day and rivals the next. For now, grab some popcorn and enjoy the show,” he quipped.
The clash stems from Wan Saiful’s decision to escalate a longstanding controversy by referring Azmin, Bersatu’s secretary-general, to the party’s disciplinary board. Wan Saiful accused Azmin of threatening division leaders allegedly involved in a plot to oust party president Muhyiddin Yassin. He also revived a past scandal involving an explicit video allegedly linked to Azmin, claiming it disqualifies him from leadership until resolved.
Azmin, in response, rejected Wan Saiful’s accusations as baseless slander, asserting that no new evidence had emerged to substantiate the claims. Rafizi, with a touch of humor, praised Wan Saiful’s persistence in revisiting the video controversy, predicting it would fuel political discourse for months. “This will keep Malaysia’s political scene lively for the next three to four months,” he said.
