PETALING JAYA: The PAS Non-Muslim Supporters Congress (DHPP) will take on a bigger role in the party to gain the support of non-Muslim voters in future elections, says Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man.
The PAS deputy president said the party is planning to have its non-Muslim wing play a bigger role in helping the party win more seats in swing states, such as Perak, Penang, Pahang, and potentially Selangor.
"Despite what other parties may say, PAS sternly rejects all elements of Muslim extremist ideologies as we pursue unity among the people.
"We believe that having political parties based on race alone is not good for unity. Segregating parties based on race is unfair because race is determined by God, not us.
"This is why we plan to highlight DHPP in any upcoming polls to showcase that we care for all Malaysians regardless of race or religion,” he said in his speech at the 9th DHPP convention here on Sunday (Sept 8).
At the event, PAS vice-president Datuk Idris Ahmad said that DHPP’s importance also lies in helping to dispel Islamophobia in the country.
"DHPP showcases our national unity agenda and dispels the prejudices against PAS that we only care for Muslims.
"By having DHPP play a bigger role, we hope to rid any form of Islamophobia in the country,” he said.
Meanwhile, DHPP chief N. Balasubramaniam also praised PAS for its dedication to supporting non-Muslims with its plan to have DHPP become an official wing of PAS through an amendment to its party constitution.
"If the amendment is approved, then this will likely be our last convention before we become a PAS wing, equivalent to the rest of its wings, like ulama and youth.
"This highlights PAS’ commitment to treat us as equals regardless of race or religion,” he said.
DHPP deputy chief Lim Guan Seng noted PAS' move as another necessary step towards uniting Malaysians.
With this, the hope is now for DHPP to eventually become another core pillar of PAS.
"This will set the precedent for future generations of the party to continue pursuing unity and harmony above all else,” he added.
