ALOR SETAR: PAS Youth has voiced its support for party president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang’s statement that any candidate for the Prime Minister’s post should be below the age of 70.
Its deputy Youth chief Mohd Hafez Sabri said although the party president's statement was brief, it reflected the Islamist party's serious commitment to introduce fresh leadership in national governance.
"It also reflects the party’s determination not to rely solely on "recycled" or long-serving figures, but to put forward candidates who are more capable, dynamic, and competitive," he said in a statement on Monday (Sept 15).
Earlier, Abdul Hadi admitted that he was not qualified to be the next prime minister because of his age and health.
He said the role is better suited to those under age 70, who are strong, healthy and able to work with the people on the ground.
"I am already 78 years old; someone like me is no longer suitable.
"Choose the healthiest first... those under 70 are stronger.
"That is how PAS selects its leaders," said the PAS president.
Hafez, who is also the Manjoi Assemblyman, said such a stance was particularly well-received by the younger generation.
He said it demonstrates PAS’s openness to empowering a new wave of leaders who are ready to take on national responsibilities.
"Such an approach not only shows strategic political foresight but also reinforces PAS’s sincerity in championing renewal and progressive change for the country.
"PAS Youth firmly believes this step will strengthen public confidence that the party is not just a party of the PASt, but one for the future, ready to lead the country with a leadership that is dynamic, forward-thinking, and firmly rooted in Islamic principles," he added.
