Malaysiakini (http://www.malaysiakini.com)
Only PAS can lead M'sia to Islam, declares Mat Taib, 23 April 2013
by Hazlan Zakaria
Former Umno vice-president Muhammad Muhammad Taib has joined PAS, saying he believes that it is the only party that can lead Malaysia towards Islam.
"Only PAS can bring enlightenment," he told a press conference after handing over his membership form to president Abdul Hadi Awang at party headquarters in Kuala Lumpur today.
"I have to support the party that can bring true guidance.”
Muhammad said the BN has developed Malaysia but that this has been "development without soul", leading to a morally problematic if wealthy urban society.
"Islamic values should be spreading from the cities, just like Mekah and Madinah became focal point of Islam during the Prophet's time,” he said.
“By right, the cities in the Klang Valley, which is the metropolis, should become the beacons of Islam, to lead the way for the hinterland.”
Hadi, who welcomed Mat Taib - as he is better known - said the latter’s membership had long been mooted.
He reiterated that PAS had opted to wait until after the nomination process for the 13th general election to show that Muhammad is sincere and did not join the party to become a candidate or because he wants power.
Also present were PAS leaders deputy murshidul am Harun Din, and vice-presidents Salahuddin Ayub and Mahfuz Omar.
Asked about developments regarding PAS and PKR seat-overlaps in one parliamentary and six state seats, Salahuddin said this is pending discussion and that a statement would be made in the next few days.
"Hopefully, with wisdom, we will resolve it," he said.
Salahuddin labelled the overlaps as isolated incidents which do not affect the cooperation and harmony between the Pakatan Rakyat parties.
However, PAS organ HarakahDaily reported this afternoon, quoting Hadi, that the Islamic party had already decided to cede the Labuan parliamentary seat and the two state seats to PKR; Sungai Acheh in Penang, Panti in Johor.
While PKR will give the three Terengganu state seats in Bukit Besi, Seberang Takir and Kota Putera to PAS.
As for the Kota Damansara state seat which is being contested by Dr Nasir Hashim from PSM under the PKR banner, this will be resolved in a triparte discussion between the Pakatan allies.
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