TAPAH: Amanah has urged PAS president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang to retract his statement that political victory takes precedence over performing umrah and haj.
Perak Amanah Syariah (Islamic law) and Dakwah (Islamic teachings) bureau chief Azmy Mohamed Nazir said the Marang MP's statement was not only confusing but also damages the Muslims' understanding of religious priorities.
"Performing the haj and umrah is a highly respected act of worship in Islam.
"Haj is the fifth pillar of Islam — a fardhu ain (personal obligation) for Muslims who are able," he said in a statement on Sunday (April 20).
"It is not just a sunnah practice (the way of the Prophet), but a clear and honourable command of Allah.
"Underestimating its status for political gain is a form of political extremism," he added.
Abdul Hadi reportedly said that political victory should be prioritised over performing Umrah and Haj during a ceramah at Kampung Tanjong Keramat here on Saturday night (April 19).
Azmy said that all parties, especially politicians, need to be cautious when issuing statements that touch on religious law.
"Do not let political enthusiasm go beyond limits. We advise that the statement be retracted and corrected. "Let's conduct politics with manners and knowledge," he said.
