PAS has frequently found itself at the centre of controversy because of statements made by some of its leaders, particularly on issues involving race, religion and gender.
The Islamist party strangely wonders why it is unable to win over non-Muslim voters when many find its stand on many issues unacceptable.
The party, which aspires to take over the country, is also fond of pointing out that the four states they govern – Kedah, Perlis, Terengganu and Kelantan – are exemplary states.
Unfortunately, most non-Muslims think otherwise, as these states remain poor and backward, in their eyes.
While the party often argues that its positions are rooted in Islamic principles or have been taken out of context, many of these remarks have generated significant public criticism and have affected perceptions of the party, especially among non-Muslims.
Some of the more prominent controversies included comments about non-Muslims and political leadership.
PAS president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang has repeatedly argued that Muslims should lead the country and has criticised what he describes as excessive influence from non-Muslim political parties.
Some of his remarks have been interpreted as portraying non-Muslims as challenging the position of Islam or the Malay rulers, prompting accusations that the party alienates minorities.
Then, there is the use of religious terminology in politics. Various PAS leaders have been criticised for using terms such as kafir (non-believer/infidel) in political discourse or making statements that opponents say are divisive.
In recent years, even some PAS leaders acknowledged that such language could offend non-Muslims and urged members to be more sensitive.
PAS is still struggling with women and gender issues. PAS has faced criticism over statements about women's leadership, dress codes and gender roles.
One recent example involved a PAS Youth leader comparing women leaders to female cows, which drew widespread condemnation as sexist.
Last year, PAS Youth information Muhammad Salman Al Farisi reportedly posted an online analogy claiming that when a female cow leads a herd, she makes all the decisions while males just graze. He argued that humans should not follow a similar dynamic by letting women lead – which unfortunately was widely reported overseas.
Then, there are dress codes and moral policing. In PAS-governed states such as Terengganu and Kelantan, proposals or enforcement involving dress codes, entertainment restrictions, gender segregation and business regulations have often generated controversy.
Critics argue these measures affect non-Muslims and personal freedoms, while PAS maintains they are intended to preserve public morality.
PAS has also consistently opposed concerts and certain cultural events, arguing they encourage "hedonism" or conflict with Islamic values. These positions have led to debates over artistic freedom and tourism.
But the worst is its race based political messaging. PAS has frequently framed politics around protecting Malay-Muslim interests, arguing that Islam and Malay political power require safeguarding.
Supporters see this as defending constitutional provisions, while critics say such rhetoric deepens ethnic polarisation.
One recurring pattern noted by political observers is that PAS simultaneously seeks to expand support among non-Muslims through its non-Muslim supporters' wing while some leaders continue making remarks that many non-Muslims perceive as exclusionary or insensitive.
This has led to criticism that the party's outreach efforts are undermined by the rhetoric of certain members.
PAS, for its part, rejects claims that it is anti-non-Muslim and points to its non-Muslim wing and occasional non-Muslim election candidates as evidence that it welcomes all Malaysians.
overlooking the party's positions on governance, welfare, anti-corruption and economic issues.
The latest controversy involving Kedah Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Sanusi Md Nor is simply another case of a PAS leader shooting off his mouth and in the process shooting itself on the foot.
The PAS election director had sparked backlash after starting at a rally that "the Chinese have China, the Indians have India and the Malays only have Tanah Melayu".
Leaders across political lines criticised the remarks as racially divisive, while his party leaders have sought to carry out damage control by claiming he was quoted out of context, a tactical political approach which the media uses too.
PAS president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang often rebuts criticism by making claims of Islamophobia when he is pinned to a corner and unable to explain convincingly.
Next month, Malaysia will be celebrating its 69th National Day and it is ironic that the country is still grappling with race and religious issues.
Voters should be picking their elected representatives on their capabilities and records – and not merely on race and religion, as advocated by PAS.
The views expressed here are the author's own
Wong Chun Wai
Wong Chun Wai began his career as a journalist in Penang, and has served The Star for over 35 years in various capacities and roles. He is now group editorial and corporate affairs adviser to the group, after having served as group managing director/chief executive officer. On The Beat made its debut on Feb 23 1997 and Chun Wai has penned the column weekly without a break, except for the occasional press holiday when the paper was not published. In May 2011, a compilation of selected articles of On The Beat was published as a book and launched in conjunction with his 50th birthday. Chun Wai also comments on current issues in The Star.
