PAS Youth chief Afnan Hamimi Taib Azamudden emphasized the critical role of non-Malay voters as kingmakers in certain Malaysian parliamentary constituencies, underscoring the need to gain their trust to secure electoral success. Speaking at the PAS Youth Muktamar in Alor Setar on Friday, Afnan acknowledged the challenges of Malaysia’s plural society and urged the party to demonstrate that Islamic-centric leadership is equitable and protective of all communities.
“We must convince non-Malays that an Islam-centric leadership will not oppress but safeguard their rights, just as we defend those of Muslims,” Afnan said during his opening address. He stressed that Islamic principles mandate fair and respectful treatment of non-Muslims, a value PAS Youth must uphold.
Afnan highlighted that PAS-led states exemplify this commitment by allocating funds for vernacular schools and preserving non-Muslim houses of worship. “The non-Muslim community lives in peace and safety, free from racial discord or hostility,” he noted.
Addressing misconceptions, Afnan refuted claims by what he called “enemies of Islam” who spread fear that PAS rule would impose headscarves on non-Muslims or demolish their places of worship. To counter such narratives, he advocated for inclusive welfare programs, intercommunity dialogues, and visits during festive seasons to foster goodwill.
“Our goal is not merely to secure their votes but to earn their trust,” Afnan said. “We want non-Malays to believe that their future under PAS will be peaceful, prosperous, and just.”
Afnan’s remarks echoed those of PAS deputy president Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man at the party’s previous muktamar. Tuan Ibrahim had called for a strategic shift within PAS Youth to prioritize gaining non-Malay support to strengthen the party’s bid to lead the federal government. He acknowledged the party’s limited support in non-Malay areas, particularly in southern Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, and Sarawak, urging PAS to address this weakness to broaden its appeal.
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