At the first ceramah I spoke at in the run up to the last GE, for YB Tony Pua and his ADUN running mates, I very categorically said that I trusted PAS more than I did UMNO.
I also said that I found PAS to be more sincere than UMNO.
I urged voters who might have to choose between a PAS and an UMNO candidate to give their vote to the PAS candidate.
After all, we were going to vote for change, and if we could vote out BN and vote in PAS, it would surely mean that come next election, we could, if we wanted to, get rid of PAS if they did not live up to our expectations.
That’s people power.
And at every ceramah, one demand was consistently made : no more race-based politics.
A week after the elections, some bloggers, myself included, were hosted to tea by one of the PAS leaders.
I took the opportunity to remind him that PAS must not overlook one very important fact : much of the votes that they got from non-Malays and a great many Malays outside of Kelantan and possibly Terengganu, were votes to punish the Pak Lah regime for unkept 2004 election promises rather than votes out of love and support for PAS.
I also shared with him my thoughts that if PAS sincerely wanted to change those ‘anti-BN’ votes into ‘we support PAS’ votes, PAS would have to start working hard to get all of civil society convinced that there is no reason to fear supporting PAS.
And if and when all of civil society is at ease with PAS, DAP, too, might be able to relax about an open collaboration with PAS in any state or federal coalition. With DAP being able to openly collaborate with PAS, there would no longer be a need for PKR to play the role of ‘go-between’. This would make for more equality between the three parties in dealing with each other.
I therefore read with utter dismay today a report in The Malaysian Insider that PAS is warming up to ties with UMNO.
Whilst there is nothing necessarily wrong with ‘warming up to’, it is the agenda as reported that disturbs.
According to the report, PAS has given its clearest signal that it was willing to open talk with Umno on a possible collaboration, subject to agreeable terms.
The Malaysian Insider also reports : ‘There have been overtures by intermediaries of Umno to senior PAS leaders, suggesting that the arch enemies consider working together. So far, the response from the Islamic party has been lukewarm. Party veterans such as Abdul Hadi and Datuk Nik Aziz Nik Mat are open to the idea of some form of collaboration with Umno for the sake of Malay unity’.
Malay unity?
Did The People’s Voice and The People’s Declaration speak of Malay unity, of Chinese unity, of Indian unity?
In case PAS has misplaced its copy of these two documents, or has overlooked its endorsement of the same, let me remind PAS what, we the rakyat, declared and which declaration they have associated with by their unqualified endorsement of these two documents.
‘And we, the rakyat of Malaysia of all all races and of various faiths, now declare that we reject race-based systems of governance of the country in favour of non race-based, integrated systems of governance’.
Will PAS honour its promise to us to work towards a non race-based, integrated system of governance?
And if so, how is that to be reconciled with talks of collaboration with a party whose members have for so long played up race issues and sentiments to keep the rakyat divided for their own political survival ? Whose members and their cohorts outside the party, bankrupt and bereft of ideas on how to halt their slide into political irrelevance, now shamelessly choose to play up issues of Malay rights and Malay supremacy?
Upon agreeable terms?
What terms?
That UMNO abandon its race supremacist stance?
If it is with the likes of these that PAS now proposes to collaborate, how then does it propose to work within a Pakatan Rakyat coalition that undertook with us, the rakyat, to be guided by our Voice and our Declaration in steering this our nation forward?
Or have we read much too much into PAS’s endorsement of our Voice and our Declaration?
I need to know, and I need to know now.
I need to know if I have unwittingly misled people into believing that PAS is indeed more sincere than UMNO.
I need to know now if i must start to work now to undo the wrong that I might have done in urging people to vote PAS.
The People's Parliament 
virtualmystic
May 21, 2008
As the saying goes “politics makes strange bedfellows”. Won’t it be the ultimate double cross if PAS merely used the Pakatan to garner a stronger voice with which it would later use to seek a “truce” or equitable partnership with a weaker UMNO. By the very virtue of it’s name UMNO (like MIC and MCA) cannot give up its Malay Supremecists ideals, and should it come to PAS (pun intended) the day they join hands, woe will it be for Malaysia, Malays and Non- malays, muslims and Non muslims alike.
virtualmystic,
Quite the contrary, I think both PAS and UMNO will rue the day that happens.
That will mean the end of the BN coalition as presently constituted. Sabah and Sarawak coalition partners will distance themselves, as will the likes of Gerakan & PPP.
Malay voters who have previously supported UMNO but who find the PAS agenda distasteful and unpalatable will no longer vote UMNO.
Some PAS members will not forget that the PAS leaders have lonmg categorised UMNO as kafir.
I think PAS and UMNO will have more reason for concern with such a marriage.
Helen Ang
May 21, 2008
Haris,
Beware MSM bearing gift of free news website!
Here’s an Apr 13 thread in Berita M’sia: “Does anyone have any information as to who’s behind ‘Malaysian Insider’ and financing it?”
The reply,
“Who’s involved: Fox Media, run by Brandon Pereira, ex-group editor of NST, PR consultants for many IDR projects, also PR for Patrick Lim’s PGCC, P’ng Hong Kwan is retired production editor of NST. Joan Lau is full-time at Fox Media and ex-editor NST Life & Times, Debra Chong is ex-feature writer of NST Life & Times section, Choo Choy May is ex-photographer of NST, couple of others”.
“Who’s financing it: not enough info, some say 4th floor, others say Azman Hashim”.
As you will remember, ‘MalaysiaVotes’ refused to divulge who their financiers were when asked, and then look at the nice-nice stories they carried during GE on KJ, endorsing Lee Hwa Beng and post-election, bleeding their hearts out for Shahrizat’s loss to Izzah.
As to cozying up to Umno, the PAS leaders I’ve spoken to have voiced their wariness. And they did recognise the support they got as protest votes, as do DAP.
I wrote this in a March, 2004 mKini article: “Remember when Umno was calling for ‘Malay unity’ talks? What the MCA media mouthpieces pointedly did not bring up was the all-important question: ‘Who is it that the Malays are supposed to unite against?’
PAS scored a tactical victory when it rebuffed Umno’s overtures by stating if there should be unity talks, then it was rightly Malaysian unity that needed discussion.
Another example pertains to a ‘Mingguan Malaysia’ interview with the late PAS president Fadzil Noor, where the reporter was trying to get Fadzil to commit his party to Malay special rights. Despite several leading questions to steer him in that direction, Fadzil refused to take the bait.”
See, MSM spins as ever.
PAS are seasoned political players. If you read the MI article closely, I think the party’s wariness is evident. PAS must be outreached to now more than ever and civil society must not allow MSM to be batu api & menghasut (I’m so indignant my English fails me, sorry … someone translate?)
Jayanath
May 21, 2008
Sadly the war to rise above the primordial instincts of (wo)man seems insurmountable.We need to mobilise civil society groups to educate both the politicians and the rakyat!Let the BM Roadshow begin!
Ted Yeap
May 21, 2008
Ironically, Melayu Mudah Lupa Again?
zoz
May 21, 2008
Somehow, somewhere, sometime, someone or the other, within the framework of PAS are bound and keen to project themself by advocating narrow and partisian politics for their selfish gain….or the real hero.
But in the Malaysian society, these are the people who eventually ascend the ladder, without the f>>k for hell or fire to the very fabrics of Malaysian society.
Isn,t it time that legislation are put in place to prosecute people who are bend on Racist or Fascist intend???
Unfortunately, in Malaysia, Malaysian leaders, led by the the Prime Minister unshamely propagate the slogan of DEMI AGAMA, BANGSA DAN NEGARA.
Isn’t it time we change the slogan to DEMI KEBAHAGIAN RAKYAT MALAYSIA.
After 50 years of Merdeka, we are still stuck in the Racial Revolution, rather than gearing the citizen towards economic well being and TRUE SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT.
Lets stand together and condemn whoever they may be, who propagate Racism and Fascism.
a concerned voter
May 21, 2008
Haris,I felt as dissapointed as u r over this latest development.Like u,I too encouraged my friends n relatives to vote for PAS(we r Chinese voters).This shows that politicians,no matter which parties they belong to,can never be trusted fully.Just when we thought that things r getting better for all of us when
Pakatan Rakyat won 5 states,this had to happen and it is hardly 3 months after the GE. I felt very pessismistic about the future of our beloved country.Won’t be surprise we will slide back to square one if things continue at this rate.We the rakyat who r
suppose to be the bossess r since at the mercy of our
servants the politicians.
delCapo
May 22, 2008
I think, and hope that it’s a case of courtship & try try by the “UMNO intermediaries” to PAS leaders… u know, throw some ideas and see what happens…
PAS, maybe being “politically polite” also would like to listen to the “offers” and see what happens… maybe that’s just the way they are..
PAS has to realise that this is a crucial few years for PR and cannot be even mildly preceived to be pussyfooting or playing the “see what happens” card… even if it is a strategy to pick UMNO brains..
PR needs to continue it’s momentum to gain 100% confidence of the Rakyat… keeping their promises… hell, they r talking about running the damn country, for goodness sake.
Stick to the program!!
lotusees
May 22, 2008
Very important questions waiting for very important answers.
yh
May 22, 2008
if PAS goes to bed with UMNO, it will be their biggest mistake. you right, Haris, I gave my vote to PAS coz I feel the party with Husam and his colleagues are more open, clean and upright. Mixing up with UMNO, under the pretext of Malay unity, to me is a no no. I am looking forward to a unity among all Malaysians, regardless of race and creed. This is my country, I am born here and I will die here. But, if I cant see a future, sadly, I will give my kids the choice. My wish, is that, all Malaysians, will unite as Bangsa Malaysia and continue to build up the country for the next generation.
lpplmala
May 22, 2008
All politician cannot be trusted. This is why we need NGO, People’s Parliament
Keith
May 22, 2008
Let me quote the movie Man of the Year 2006:
“Politicians are a lot like diapers – they should be changed frequently, and for the same reason.”
That being said, I do know that there are a small number of good politicians out there.
kim
May 22, 2008
Haris,
Whatever the result, it just shows that we can’t trust anybody in politic, can we?
PAS endorsed on the declaration in Blog House prior to 12 GE, and I was there to witness it. Now, see how carefully they crafted their statement… It is full of s..t.
I can’t help, I am in so much pain, Haris.
Surind
May 22, 2008
People, you want justice? Ask your elected reps & supported PR parties what they are doing & are they serious about taking over the federal government asap & with urgency! It’s clear nothing will come from race based BN rule!
PAS, be careful… better get in shape before we throw you out!
casper
May 22, 2008
No surprises there Haris. There is always the opportunity for PAS to ‘work’ with UMNO, that avenue has always been the ‘joker’/free pass card that is going to salvage what is left of UMNO – all done in name of Malay unity.
As much as you find it unpalatable, I’m certain such a collaboration has crossed the minds of both PKR and DAP.
Perhaps, the many words of caution voiced out by voters about PAS now rings true – and yes, it would sound harsh if I were to say – PAS cannot be trusted. But think for a moment, if UMNO were to consolidate its hold on the seat of government, PAS would find it easier to work with UMNO than a coalition of PKR/DAP.
UMNO will bend to emerge a more willing patner to accomodate PAS with its Islamic state agenda – the rational is as simple as that Haris. And PAS would not see it as a back stab to PKR/DAP, not while it remains true to its own calling.
You have good foresight by stating, “That will mean the end of the BN coalition as presently constituted. Sabah and Sarawak coalition partners will distance themselves, as will the likes of Gerakan & PPP” but that would be furthest from the minds of a UMNO/PAS combine entity.
UMNO would be willing to forsake all component parties while PAS knows the draw from non-Muslims is marginal, both can be sacrifice. On paper, the lost can be made up by calling on bigger numbers from a combine membership roll – all in name of Malay unity.
Strange bedfellows indeed virtualmystic.
Regards Haris, gotta get back to the ball game.
Casper
raj raman 666
May 22, 2008
morning haris,
Its true enough what you said regarding pas and umno.
For me i kick out Barisan (umno) due to their pure racist.
I voted Pas not because love them either but in hope they will change as we the other race hoping to be malaysian putra.
Basically i think umno with ketuanan melayu and pas with kafir mengkafir wont change.
rajraman666.
HARIS.
You are the odd one leaving the senile mahathir as bygone man in your blogs.Its shows that you are really boikot MSN and i like it that way.
artic turban
May 22, 2008
With the alternate media the flow of information is very liberating, and now with the rtm program on bloggers and the exposure by umno that they lost the votes due to the alternate media, will definately bring in more readers and contributors to the blogs.
This is very healthy as the rakyat has a choice of not only reading what is printed in the propoganda msm and really hear the truth from the net will be an eye oener to them. Now the have a chance to not only read the news in the blogs, understand it but to give their 2 cents worth and comments, this is called communicating, something the umno govt with its cohorts from other bn parties have tried to do, the great racial divide and rule policy.
If Pas thinks they can warm up relations with umno and bring about an islamic state or whatever they plan to do to the detrriment of the pakatan rakyat, than they will be the ones to cause the break up of the pakatan and handing over the states of perak and selangor over to umno and bn. They will lose all credibility with the rakyat and will be considered no different than UMNO. ALL the hard work of the forward thinking members of PAS LIKE MB nijhar and a few others will be for naught, you might find a migration of these members to other parties, probably keadilan. Pas will never be trusted again and will be dumped into the dustbin of political oblivian, yes they will have 1 state, but thats it. nothing more.
virtualmystic
May 22, 2008
Well analysed Haris. While I agree that you have very salient points, I have noticed (correct me if I am wrong here) that politicians have not always used logic nor have they thought out thier actions in so much detail. Immediate survival, leading to kneejerk reactions and uncannily stupid statements seems to be the flavour of the day.
Even you yourself, after having ruled out the scenario I presented, still ask the question of yourself “Did I make a grave mistake of inadvertantly deceiving the people?”.
virtualmystic,
The behaviour you have just described is that of the UMNO politicians post 12th GE.
Gerakan appears to have woken up to the realities, and may even see it as a timely opportunity to push for change within BN.
Problem with any reform within BN lies principally with UMNO. The culture of corruption and cronyism, I fear, is so deep rooted already.
Dy
May 22, 2008
Maybe I have voted the wrong party..Having regrets now.
clearwater
May 22, 2008
All of us need to know. Is there any honor or integrity in politicians? Are they all proponents of expediency, where the ends always justify the means. Are they all self serving, some disguising it better than others. Have we been taken for a ride in GE12? Do not blame yourself, Haris, for we too were desperate to believe in change for a better Malaysia. We still believe, though less fervently and less sure, of the agents of change.
Maverick
May 22, 2008
Well you people out there kindly live up to the election promises and don’t do stunts as this might not look too good on your political arena. We rejected BN because of so many reasons that cannot be accepted in this times of globalization. Communal politics is for foolhardy crony individuals who have no proper agenda to voice their ill hearted ambitions. I believe the Malaysia is heading towards a better and cultured society then previously administered under the then intimidiating BN rogues.
Robert Teh
May 22, 2008
Hi! Haris,
Thanks for holding PAS to their words and reminding them that ‘Barisan Rakyat’ means Malaysians of all races. Unity means unity of all Malaysians of all races, not a unity of a single race.
In 2004 I voted BN as I believed Pak Lah’s era will bring about positive change in this country – justice for all, fighting corruption and getting rid of all racial discrimination. But we all know, he didn’t deliver on his promises.
In 2008 I voted Opposition and went about telling people to vote for change – vote PAS, vote DAP, vote PKR, vote anything except BN! I wasn’t alone and the results of the 12th GE speak for itself – a massive increase in the rejection of BN.
Looks like guys like us will still need to keep up the fight for a just, equitable and corrupt-free government.
Long may guys like you and Raja Petra live! Live to fight for the rakyat of our beloved nation.
Juan Taman
May 22, 2008
Well said and concerned!!My friend.
I have also read the same article in Malaysia- insider. It bothers me and makes me wonder that “in politics there is really no such thing as friend or enemy, there is only mutual interest!”
There is a possibility that, in the end ,PAS and UMNO will be divided into two camps. One that supports Anwar’s PR philosophy and another group supporting TDM’s race-based and PAS’s extreme religious- based politics.
If such a scenario happens, PAK LAH’s group might as well team up with Anwar to rule the country since they all believe in reformasi.
The rest will be a test of the political maturity of the Rakyat to choose. The Rakyat has already shown what they want in the last GE. Pak Lah said he had already got the message.
Paul Warren
May 22, 2008
But Haris, at this time, PAS is worth a lot more to UMNO then MCA, MIC, Gerakan and PPP put together.
These politicians take Malay unity and supremacy as a given. Like as if that is the ultimate goal to be attained for the Malay race.
As for PAS it cannot under any circumstances remove itself away from its Islamic agenda. Now is the best time it will ever have to attain that agenda. So, taking to the dance floor to do the tango with UMNO might just be incumbent on them.
Any overt collaboration at the Federal level may in the short term be avoided. However, at the State levels I will not be too surprised if you see collaboration of the type that may take the state closer to Islamic rule.
In the present instance where there is a possibility that froggies might make it possible for Pakatan to rule, PAS weill find itself the poor third cousin in that alliance. However, if by collaborating with UMNO they could force upon UMNO to bring the country closer to Islamic rule, where do you think the PAS members’ leanings should be to?
Well, like you , I too have spoken in support of PAS over the last GE. I guess, I also at the same time provided for myself the possibility of a major PAS betrayal. Wonder if they will realise that sense of betrayal for me.
James Low
May 22, 2008
They were taught that when weak, cooperate even with the Satan (DAP?)to gain or usurp power.Once strong enough they have no qualms about showing their true colours.
Didn’t the great RPK mentioned that after GE2008,a PAS leader unsuccessfully negotiated with UMNO to form a state coalition govt in Selangor? And that was only Selangor, I shudder to imagine if, at stake, was federal govt itself?
This is certainly a stab in the back and a signal to PR that PAS ambitions be scrutinized.Unless they do away with their islamic state ideology,PR may never realise its dream of ruling Malaysia.Similarly, DAP may do PR a lot of good by fine tuning its “MALAYSIAN MALAYSIA” concept.Over to Haris.
Ginger
May 22, 2008
Haris:
I am equally disappointed with what I have been reading and hearing lately from certain leaders from Pakatan. UMNO is currently in dire straits and they are starting to harp on the ketuanan Melayu issue all over again in a desperate bid to get support from its grassroots. It seems some PAS leaders are trying to capitalise on this in a subtle way. Let is all voice our disapproval loudly if any of these Pakatan leaders have conveniently forgotten their commitments to the Declaration. Let us not be made fools by them.
ymc
May 22, 2008
Not really… from the grassroot, especially in the urban areas… PAS is making a great headstart towards creating a good understanding with DAP.
Help these two parties to forge on common principles and ignore divisive ideological differences for the sake of better Malaysia.
Jim.MalaysiaBaru
May 22, 2008
Haris
Yes, I too have been concerned when Norza Zakaria started to initiate moves to reach out to PAS, and this latest development is indeed worrying. And I must say that this move of yours to seek answers from PAS is indeed a very good and important move, for indeed, we must keep them in check. Perhaps too you should write a letter to Hadi / Nik Aziz, and/or to the relevant PAS lady rep (who attended the launch of the People’s Voice and People’s Declaration just prior to the GE) to seek their formal response, just as you did with Anwar on the hopping issue. If I may, I wish to suggest that something be done about this issue, for instance, pushing for the Pakatan Rakyat to formally adopt The People’s Voice and The People’s Declaration (via say as previously suggested, a public forum to seek the formal endorsement from the Pakatan Rakyat); for we do not want to have the then Barisan Rakyat’s endorsement of both The People’s Voice and The People’s Declaration as mere lip service, for the sake of getting our votes so that they can get in – we must ensure that they remain committed to the commitment they had previously given.
Jim
xy
May 22, 2008
In politics, there is no permanent enemy, only permanent interest. For PAS or any other for that matter, the permanent interest is the survival of the party and its continual and/or increasing influence, and if possible, gaining more power. Period. Lets not be naive.
MaX
May 22, 2008
I’ve actually voted for PAS and PKR that I’m Chinese in disguise. I’m afraid of many things by doing this which I hope I won’t regret until PAS went to the side road.
I’ve more confident with PKR and DAP than PAS.
Mr Smith
May 22, 2008
This news is from Malaysian Insider. It would be wise to get truth from the horses mouth – Nik Aziz.
Why not contact Husam or Nasaruddin? They might be able to confirm or deny that report.
As for me, I do not think PAS will betray all the non Malays who voted for it.
Samuel Goh Kim Eng
May 22, 2008
Are promises really meant to be broken
Almost as soon as they have been spoken
Since what are promised are merely a token
Thus from your pipedream you must be woken
(C) Samuel Goh Kim Eng – 220508
http://MotivationInMotion.blogspot.com
Thur. 22nd May 2008.
malayamuda
May 22, 2008
If this is the case then i truly hate myself for voting PAS on March 8th.
Malay unity ? Then what about Chinese unity and Indian unity. I urge all Chinese and Indian MPs from Pakatan to “warm up” with MCA and MIC respectively for the sake of Chinese and Indian unity………
As for Malaysian unity, FCUK IT !!!
Bee Nah
May 22, 2008
All that I can say that its a pity that PAS has not got it.
The very reason the Rakyat denied BN the 2/3 majority, precisely becuase we are all fed up with the ROT.
It was a vote against corruption, nepotism, wastage and of course the affimative policy which really did not help the poor and made the cronies greedier.
We too would like to know the stand of PAS, perhaps they should clarify immediately. Its sad that they did not make clear their intention prior to the elections.
So then why did they sign the People’s Declaration?
A Voter
May 22, 2008
I have always contented with the DAP’s narrow-minded policies when the said party always cast aspersions of PAS’ rhetorical Islamic policies.
Being a voter and persuader of others to vote for any opposition parties, without creed, race for the sake of unseating BN from the recent GE, I am saddened by PAS’ moved to welcomed Dr. Mahathir to join the party. This was facts.
Adding salt to the injury, if it’s true that PAS has inclination to join UMNO will be a slap in the face of the deceived voters of any race, esp. non-Malays to have voted PAS only to know that this very party has an ostensible intent -joining UMNO (if any will).
malayamuda
May 22, 2008
I hope Anwar and all other pakatan leaders are studying the situation closely.
If there is a snap election before september, i urge first of all, relieve PAS from the coalition, and do not give Ibrahim Ali @ Katak a seat to stand in [ if he comes in a wheel chair we may consider ]
There should be a new alliance without PAS. PAS is exterme and it is there in their blood, signing any number of declaration will not change that !!
novice101
May 22, 2008
The people who voted PRakyat have been sold out by PAS, Nik Aziz and also by PKR and Azizah. Now PAS is talking about “malay interest’ and Nik Aziz and Azizah are offering to join them. ‘The door is wide open to him’ …..ha!
novice101
May 22, 2008
Just stand aside and watch the show unfolding. See the endless shadow play of the directionless characters.
mahathir is laughing in his heart at the gutless, spineless AAB. When they meet in Japan he will be wearing the despicable smile. After the meeting he will be pouring scorn at malleable AAB.
Did any earth shaterring event occur after he resigned? It is already 2 days – it must disappoint him to no end. He thought there will be an exodus, so the majority of the people is right, mahathirism is dead.
He knew that he and AAB will be going to Japan. He made the move because he knows the spineless lot will ask to meet him there. Now, he will have even more scorn and disrespect for this lot.
As to najid, what else can you expect from him. Isn’t this his normal behavior. Hadn’t he stood with Ku Li and Musa Hitan till the last minute and then switched to mahathir’s side. Remember? Remember?
Chandra is not the only despicable person in the present political scenario. Today we have 2 new persons to add to the list and also 2 organisations.
PAS and PKR are the organisations and Nik Aziz and Azizah are the new individuals!
The people who voted PRakyat have been sold out by PAS, Nik Aziz and also by PKR and Azizah. Now PAS is talking about “malay interest’ and Nik Aziz and Azizah are offering mahathir to join them. ‘The door is wide open to him’ …..ha!
shar101
May 22, 2008
Haris,
All these jostling and lobbying for positions and power are the prerequisites of the typical Malaysian politician constrained by race-based party policies.
When you started the “Get to know your MP’ and ‘Get an MP’ initiatives last year, it was a ‘work-in-progress’ effort to create political awareness among civil society and to identify the good qualities to look for in an MP, and decide on who is available for the job. Unfortunately, the choices we’re given were actually made for us by the respective PR party leadership, and NOT from the constituency itself.
The very idea of putting up independent candidates as voters’ choice was sidelined for the sake of expediency i.e. rejecting BN.
Let’s get back on-track on your original plan because if and when there is another snap GE (and even a by-election), it’s incumbent on civil society to show the present batch of politicians that we too have a choice.
And GE12 was proof of the emerging ‘makkal sakthi’ within Malaysians called Barisan Rakyat with its PVD (People’s Voice and Declaration).
Meanwhile, with PAS having ‘cafe latte chats’ with UMNO, will they be discussing the PAS prez proposal of assuming the premiership as reported in Utusan Malaysia? (Read this in a comment by Bung Karno at Rocky’s).
barry
May 22, 2008
I read that PAS will welcome TDM with open arms, and that’s very very scary for me. I have grave doubts that PAS is more interested in making Malaysia an Islamic State than making Malaysia a great nation of many religions and races. I just hope that there are enough Malays in this country who don’t subscribe to the idea of an Islamic State of Malaysia. I am paying a very close attention to the development in this area.
a concerned voter
May 22, 2008
Haris,do u still remember how PAS harp about the “Welfare State” agenda to replace it’s Islamic one
prior to the 12th GE? If u manage to speak to any of their top leaders,please ask them on our behalf (we the common citizen who vote for them this time)what had happen to this “Welfare State” agenda which gave us hope? If they had forgotten all about it,please do remind them for us. They might have forgotten but we don’t. Or is it true what Mahathir says “Melayu mudah lupa”?
Steven Tan
May 22, 2008
I am fully behind Haris. PAS must answer for this.
Ahmad Navi Abdullah
May 22, 2008
Haris,
Recent statements by PAS leaders on Malay Unity and their attending of these Malay Unity conferances including the ones by TDM are indeed unsttling. While I will not write them off completely, We need some assurance that these statements are being manipulated by the MSMs and not voluntarirly given.
I do notice that MSM reporters have the habit of asking leading questions to which some of these clowns knowingly or otherwise respond.
The most surtprising was the recent one by Nik Aziz talking about malay unity, when we have been yelling Malaysian unity when voting them in.
Anak malaysia
May 22, 2008
Haris,
Thank you so much for so eloquently voicing the troubled thoughts of The Malaysian (not the Malay, Chinese, Indian, Iban and whatever other races we have here in our lovely country)vis-a-vis the report in The Malaysian Insider.Like you, I am flabbergasted that PAS should even harbour any thoughts of linking up with BN (and specifically UMNO) again. Have PAS forgotten their failed period in the Barisan? Are they also drawn to the sick idea of Ketuanan Melayu? As you very correctly pointed out, has PAS forgotten their committment to The Peoples Voice and tThe people’s Declaration. Do not for a moment think that the votes that brought victory to the Pakatan was won on the promise and the premise that component parties in the Pakatan have agreed to Upholding the policy of a Malaysian Malaysia. Be forewarned that any change or deviation from that promise will bring the downfall of PAS.
Syahredzan Johan
May 22, 2008
I think we shouldn’t jump the gun here.
All we have is a report from the Malaysian Insider. Do we have any concrete proof that PAS will collaborate with UMNO? I’m a frequent visitor of PAS’ Harakahdaily and Malay-language websites such as Tranungkite that make up PAS’ urban support-base, and I do not see any indication either from the grassroots or the top leaders on any intention in forming an alliance with UMNO.
PAS members never forgot what happened the last time they worked together with UMNO.
I believe that until and unless it actually happens, we should give PAS the benefit of the benefit of doubt. Yes, it will be terribly disappointing if PAS took that path, but I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: PAS is not stupid. It knows how hard it was to gain support from the non-Malays. I don’t think they’ll let it all go just for their long time foe.
Kenny Gan
May 22, 2008
What is the meaning of “Malay Unity?” Are Malays supporting different political parties considered disunited? Do everybody need to have the same political beliefs or eat the same food or worship the same God to be united?
Look deeper and you’ll see that Malay unity is nothing but a thin verneer for unity under UMNO banner.
Instead of bandying the nebulous concept of Malay unity, we should be talking about National Unity instead. It is bad to divide the country into Malays and non-Malays.
xy
May 22, 2008
it is an issue deemed critical to all who voted PR and all 3 component parties knew why and how they won in GE12.
If therefore the top leaders of PAS have remained silent on this issue after being reported (never mind the accuracy of the reporter), then they have essentially told us their stance.
Hadn’t we heard this before” “Love is blind” and “costly”.
alhadee
May 23, 2008
Wait till UMNO offer to legislate hudud in the Federal Laws.
Let’s see how will PAS react to that.
Wait till UMNO offer for more empowerment of Syafi’e Court a.k.a Syariah Court.
Let’s see how will PAS react to that.
When PAS says that they are willing to talk to UMNO, in political language it should be read as ‘what is your offer UMNO?’
Now the ball is UMNO’s court. If the offer is irresistible e.g implementation of Hudud laws and etc, I believe that PAS would be more than willing to collaborate.
Every man has his price. And I am not talking in terms of dollars and cents.
After 8th March, UMNO and PAS has been talking with each other. Contrary to what Haris believe, I think we are closer to Islamic State more than ever.
It is just a matter of a right offer and acceptance would be on its way. Politics are like market place. After trading with the Rakyat is done through the election, it is now negotiations of price between those who have been elected.
And don’t worry. Whatever the outcome is, PAS will always find something in the Quran or the Hadith to justify anything they do.
And by the time it is too late, maybe you guys will realize why I am so hard up on these secular state vs islamic state issue after the election.
Neo
May 23, 2008
Looks like PAS is like a prostitute (without any principles & dignity), willing to sleep with anyone just to get power. If it continues to forget or ignore that the entire basis for which pakatan rakyat was formed (makhal sakti) or people’s unity against arrogant / corrupt UMNO, then we should ask them to join UMNO instead.
shakir
May 23, 2008
haris…haris… you believe malaysian insider and you call yourself a literate lawyer? phuitttt…. what kind of man la you. my advise to you bro… get some clarification from PAS before you create any unnecessary tension. and we all know how much you hate anything islam including PAS!
svsingam
May 23, 2008
May I suggest that all commentators temper their comments and verify the facts before allowing vitriol to flow.
What we know is what was reported, in this case by Malaysian Insider. Whether this is what PAS actually said or this is merely spin to make UMNO look good is not known.
It is good to be alerted to such reports and to seek verification from PAS (or whoever else). But to be calling PAS bad names is not the kind of Parliament I wish to see here.
I hope mine is not the lone voice.
aditiajaya
May 23, 2008
guys…..you been taken for a ride by the MI.
who is bankrolling the MI ???
that will surely answer whatever questions there are….
tak usah risau lah.
Talkingback79
May 23, 2008
Haris, so what’s next if PAS does betray us all? I have never been at ease with PAS.
In this country, in the political arena,non malays will always have much to lose no matter how much they have contributed to its progress due to the paranoia of the UMNO brand of Malays. As the world is trying hard to come together cos its moving so fast and in so many directions, we still have people here who scream of race supremacy. If there is collaboration between Pas and UMNO, I am sure its on malay supremacy, nothing else cos this brand of people can see nothin higher than above their own little shrinking heads.
Mak Kecik
May 23, 2008
Salam sejahtera everyone,
Haris,
Thank you for encouraging people to vote for PAS. I, not only voted for PAS but has spent the last 10 years of my life doing donkey work and spending real money on it.
Wrt the news item, why the panic? Surely it is not wrong to be friendly? One thing that people outside PAS do not understand is the accessibility of the top leadership to the grassroot. We are taught to be loyal and supportive but the leadership has to earn it. One step out of line, siap! Especially in these days of SMS and blogs.
cruzeiro
May 23, 2008
Maybe they know the treacherous games of Umno, and wish to see what they have in store.
However, they should remember that playing on the devil’s playground is a dangerous proposition, even if you have a skull-cap and prayer beads to arm yourself!
The old saying that “the devil would quote scripture …..”, should always be kept in mind.
They gotta be so stupid not to see that in Umno’s racist and swindling game plan … they might as well give up their Islamic platform and go back to “Taliban School of Imbeciles”!
Should PAS decide to “reconcile”, based on an agenda of Racism, Religiosity and Greed – their credibility would be shot forever.
They never would regain credibility to rule, should they be taken up so easily by the devils – yet again!
hamzah
May 23, 2008
Thanks Haris!
I also need to know since we all hv braved the rain to give our votes to PK.
But I’m gonna start doing some homework and laying the ground work just in case 🙂
svsingam
May 23, 2008
Dear Talkingback79,
If PAS were ever to collaborate with UMNO on Malay Supremacy, they would be betraying more than just Anak Bangsa Malaysia! They would be betraying their proclaimed Islamic values.
It is hard for me to visualise them making that kind of fatal error in judgement.
But stranger things have happened in politics.
muath
May 23, 2008
dear haris and others…
so what now? vote against PAS? hmmm… i guess PAS will lose a bit but you guys will be a bigger loser as PAS’s loss is UMNO’s gain and that means bye bye ketuanan rakyat and hi hi ketuanan melayu.
so if you dare… please vote against PAS.
Ihsan Alif
May 23, 2008
Before anyone jumps up and down unnecessarily, and hurl abuses and curses to PAS, did it cross anyone’s mind why the news was not even reported by any other media?
I do not believe that PAS would do such stupid things… unless of course they are pushed to a corner by their PR allies (especially DAP). They have learned the hard way about the futileness of cooperation with UMNO after their brief fray in BN 74-78, and I am sure they would not repeat it anymore.
However, what is sad is that there ae not much coordination and communications between the leaderships of the PR parties, and even sad is that quabbles happen merely based on media reports rather than actual incidences/statements. I think it is stupid to see shots fired between supposed allies even before the reports are verified.
Penang Laksa
May 23, 2008
As long as the struggle for race, party or leader’s interests exists in Malaysian politics, the future is bleak. What we need is the struggle for the rights of the people, the livelihood of the people and the rule of the people – if the political system of the country does not revolve around these 3 basic rights of the people, let’s not talk about democracy, unity, progress, or whatever ‘slogan’ you might be shouting – Makkal Sakthi, Ketuanan Rakyat or Min Quan all means only ONE thing – Rights of One People, One Voice and One Hope – to be treated as equals and to treat others as equals – That’s the true PEOPLE’S POWER !
Raizzen
May 23, 2008
PAS has never gotten over their painful so called cooperation with these AMNO punks. And oh, loads more, reMember Memali ?
If they’are talking about a collab, well yes, possible, but you AMNO punks masuk PAS. NEVER the otherwise. Doesnt matter if you’re Mahathirs and Abdullahs, u masuk PAS, ur bound by the party’s constitution and policies. And no contracts and tenders that’re gonna allow u and your family to live for 3 generations to come.
panca
May 23, 2008
Yes Haris, you did said that loud and clear that we must trust Pas than umno!
Thank you, that was why I shook your hands and said thank you at the end of the night at sg. buloh prison candle vigil night. Thank you for standing for the rights of Malaysian!
The Pas votes by the people of non-malay and malay outside Kelantan is what we trust of their sincerity for the Malaysian race. We are not afraid of trusting Pas but only afraid we have misplaced our trust!
We surely hope this is not happening(Pas collaborating with goons) and if that happens then we have been proven to be what the BN dogs have claimed….”inviting an enemy home”.
mike5553
May 23, 2008
Strange bedfellows, indeed. If it happens, then
be willing to accept the consequences.
Kenny Gan
May 23, 2008
Friends, forget about PAS jumping into bed with Umno. If they are stupid enough to try it, it will result in the biggest political whipping of their lives.
For PAS to join BN, Umno would have to embrace their concept of Islamic State and some promise of implementation. Whether spelt out or not, this will be the perception of the general public.
It is tempting to think that PAS vote bank will add to Umno vote bank to get the bulk of the Malay votes in which case, minorities won’t matter much even if they rebel as Malays make up 65% of the population. Isn’t 1 + 1 = 2?
But hold on! How may Malays who used to vote for Umno will still do so if an Islamic State is on the way? There are many moderate Malays who prefer a secular state instead of religious tyranny. Will Muslim women vote for PAS-UMNO in large numbers knowing PAS’ parochial attitude to woman?
How many Malays who voted for PAS on the basis of its Islamic credentials will still do so if it enters an unholy alliance with Umno, the father and mother of corruption and patronage?
So in this case, 1 + 1 is NOT = 2. No way! I can see the Malay vote splitting right down the middle in a best case scenario for PAS-Umno.
Meanwhile, all the non-Malays will swing massively to the opposition. With the stakes that high, there is no other way they will vote. Even the states of Sabah and Sarawak will be lost.
What we will have is that BN (or what’s left of it) will be kicked into the political wilderness while Pakatan Rakyat (minus PAS) romps home with 2/3 majority.
So just try it if they dare!
Kenny,
Saya setuju
Alucard
May 23, 2008
dont worry mates..
PAS tidak sebodoh itu. Itu semua adalah mainan media semata-mata. PAS sudah terkena dahulu di waktu kepimpinan Dato’ Asri Muda. Pisang tidak akan berbuah 2 kali. Kita belajar dari kesilapan.
Jika PAS ingin berkerjasama dengan UMNO sekalipun PAS pasti akan mengambil langkah yang menguntungkan rakyat dan Islam. Jangan cepat melatah. Mari kita tunggu dan lihat.
Selagi PAS berpegang kepada Al-Quran dan Sunnah, mereka akan membuat keputusan yang bijak. Allah telah berjanji bahawa Islam akan gemilang di permulaan dan di pengakhiran.
Zaman permulaan adalah pada zaman Rasulullah dan kini kita hampir sampai kepada zaman pengakhiran.
jbguy
May 23, 2008
Haris ajak orang supaya boikot MSM etc sebab banyak buat cerita tak betul.
Yet Haris jump at any controversial news regarding PAS. And it is from Malaysian Insider.
And then PAS-bashing starts again.
Hmm. An honest voice of human rights?
Joeawk
May 23, 2008
I am a chinese. Left, right and centre, I see discrimination against the non malays and here they talk about malay losing power.
Walk into every govt dept and what is obvious to all and sundry?
Look at the defence ministry, what do we see? Look at the police force and what do we see?
Malays losing power? My eyesight must be failing me.
What is obvious to me is that malays could have been much better if only they have not been hijacked by UMNO.
The greed and the waste is everywhere for us all to see.
Look at DBKL, look at the project by DBKL. Look at how DBKL ganging up with businesses to screw the folks of KL of all colours.
Heard what Nazri said? Prosecution shall not be handled by the ACA but by the AG. Who among us trustthe AG to be impartial.
The way forward for Malaysia will demand drastic changes and being well aware that many are fearful of change, Pakatan should be weary with their approach to take over from BN.
Let CAT catch the mouse or in the case of UMNO sewer rats.
sakura-chan
May 24, 2008
dear haris,
as much as your words shouted indignation and fear of remorse, i believe you have to consider this one vital point,
politicians, not the political party are humans.
humans are not perfect, they made and learn from their mistakes, thats wat we do.
pas has corroberated with umno once upon a time, not quite long ago and im sure you as well as other malaysians, its truly a disastrous combination.
surely if you campaigned for pas, you know based on hands-on experience on how polite and courteous both tuan guru hj hadi awang and tuan guru nik aziz. they of all people, are seasoned politicians, and know how to make their statements. and their statements, u ave to read between the lines.
thing is, its an ISLAMIC party.
and Islam is all bout unity regardless of skin colour, wealth and especially race, is it not? the foundation in which pas stood and fight 4 all this years, is not really an islamic country, as we have been misled(deliberately) by umno all tis years but to enect a country where ettiquettes and moral values fostered in her citizens.
but, im deviating.
bottomline is we dont jump to conclusions, we study facts and contemplate, taking in consideration that at this very interesting period in malaysia’s political landscape, umno and bn could tell the end is near 4 them, they’re freaking out and they’ll do whatever it takes to survive. we should know our stand and never waver because when we doubt our beliefs, it ultimately mean they, meaning umno and bn has won their own little victory. and we dont wan them to win, do we?
bumi non malay
May 24, 2008
3+ months have passed and with their 2/3 majority in Kelantan still No Abolition of APOSTASY Law……..
That hand holding moment was just a political gimmick….never mind we Declare Perak, Selangor Penang the Freedom State……and muslim who wants to convert out of Islam Freely and to be Preched at freely should start migrating to these Vision states…
Freedom is also Choice…..keep reminding PAS and the Lina Joy issues is not over yet!!…don’t for one moment think such DISPICABLE Acts is swept under carpet and forgotten….
Sang Kancil
May 24, 2008
Haris,
I have been reading your blog and this article has really saddened. As an overseas Malaysian away for nearly 30 years, I was thrill to bits when the PR gained an unprecedented 82 seats in the Federal Parliament and 5 states. With that I thought the long journey of Malaysian to unity and prosperity has just began. But, alas, it looks like one member of the PR has decided to walk away and seek greener pasture elsewhere. This will be a sad sad situation for all of us. My dream of returning to Malaysia will be just a dream.
Sang Kancil,
Don’t be so quick to write off the Pakatan!
People power will see the reformation of this country through.
There are still a lot of good people in this country.
Come on home!
Kenny Gan
May 24, 2008
Sang Kancil,
If you read, “MSM’s Machiavellian machinations against PAS” by Helen Ang on this blog, it becomes clear that PAS was a victim of misinformation by The MalaysianInsider which is pro-Umno (specifically pro-Badawi). The MSM is trying to drive a wedge between PAS and other PR parties by goading, baiting and twisting the news on PAS.
Be careful of The MalaysianInsider. All the staff are mainly ex-NST and there’s speculation that the 4th floor boys could be behind this free news site.
Talkingback79
May 26, 2008
Hmmphhh…svsingam, I can’t dispute yr point.
Sang Kancil
May 26, 2008
Haris, thanks. I am sure there a lots of good people around. It is very down hearted to see such events unfolding especialy when it was just the begining.
And Kenny you may be right. Lets hope do.