ALTHOUGH the health of PAS president Tan Seri Hadi Awang has deteriorating to the extent that he is frequently in and out of the hospital, the need for his leadership remains “very urgent”.
Such is the reaction of PAS spiritual leader Datuk Hashim Jasin who claimed that he has not personally heard confirmation from the seven-term Marang MP regarding any intention to step down.
However, Hashim admitted that there are rumours of concern among members regarding Hadi who often falls ill and requiring medical treatment.
“I didn’t hear it myself. But last month he (Hadi) called me and chatted about him going in and out of the ward,” the former PAS Perlis state commissioner gave HarakahDaily an exclusive interview ahead of the 71st PAS annual assembly in Septemeber 2025.
“Some people felt sorry for him because he’s in a condition where he doesn’t only need to be hand-held to walk but has to be stretchered (diusung) to attend events.”
Despite Hadi’s heath struggle, Hashim stressed that PAS grassroots are still looking up to the former’s leadership.
“The important thing is that PAS members as a whole still need his leadership even though he’s physically very weak by having to going in and out of the ward,” stressed the former Sanglang state assemblyman.
Mind still sharp
“Here I think the view of our members is that firstly, he should continue although some feel he that he should rest given his health issues.
“If I were to be sick like that, I wouldn’t have done anything else. But he still gives Friday lectures and if we follow along, we can’t tell if he’s healthy or sick. His thoughts and delivery are still consistent.”
Whatever the case is, Hashim said proper consideration has to be taken into account as to whether Hadi will continue to lead PAS or step down from the Islamist party.
“We are not asking him to quit although he certainly deserves a break if his illness persists. He should be allowed to continue if he wants to do so. If not, we shall continue to rely on his wisdom to move forward.”
Commenting on the possibility of a change in leadership within PAS, Hashim was adamant that whoever replaces Hadi must come from among the ulama (religious scholar) hierarchy.
“PAS leaders cannot just rely on the rule of law but must also understand the political climate. This is not about rejecting the professionals/technocrats but the party’s leadership must come from the ulama rank-and-file who can provide guidance to the professionals in today’s political climate,” he asserted.
“In the event of a vacancy, among the figures well known to the president is Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man. However, the question of who will take over is not a pressing issue as long as Hadi is still willing and able to lead.” – June 13, 2025
