MELAKA (Nov 13): Angkatan Muda Keadilan (AMK) said PAS president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang's remark that "even the worst Muslim ruler is less oppressive than a non-Muslim ruler" was an insult to the country's non-Muslim community.
AMK vice chief Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari said the youth wing of Parti Keadilan Rakyat strongly condemned the Marang MP's remarks, saying they tarnished the image of Islam.
"This statement [by Abdul Hadi] not only insults non-Muslim Malaysians but also tarnishes Islam's image. Islam does not teach us to excuse wrongdoing simply because someone shares our faith," he said in a statement on Friday.
At a political rally in Bukit Katil (N.17) on Thursday during the 16th Melaka state election campaign, Abdul Hadi claimed that even the worst Muslim rulers were less cruel than non-Muslim rulers, a remark that could fuel prejudice and hostility in a multiracial society.
Mohammed Taufiq said leadership should be measured by trustworthiness, integrity and justice, not religious identity, adding that corrupt Muslim leaders who abuse their power and oppress the people are no less tyrannical.
"Islam does not recognise the concept of 'lesser oppression'," he said, stressing that AMK regarded such rhetoric as outdated and divisive politics.
"Melaka's youth want jobs, affordable living costs, accessible housing and a clear future. They reject divisive politics that fuel suspicion among people of different religions," he said.
He said Melaka's history was rooted in openness and diversity dating back to the Melaka Sultanate, and that labelling non-Muslims as "oppressive" to win votes betrayed that heritage.
Mohammed Taufiq said AMK Malaysia called on all candidates not to exploit religion to fuel prejudice and hostility.
"I urge the people of Melaka, especially the youth, to come out and vote in large numbers. Choose based on track records, integrity and development proposals, not hatred. Islam is a blessing to all, not a political tool to divide society," he said.
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