THE Malaysia Consultative Council of Islamic Organisations (MAPIM) has called the “Malay Proclamation” recently signed between PAS and Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad a mere political stunt with no tangible benefits to the Malay Muslim community.
Describing it as nothing new or inspiring, MAPIM president Mohd Azmi Abdul Hamid said the “Malay Proclamation”, like the Malay Dignity Congress and the Malay Economics Resolution, has nothing new to offer.
“The Malays are weak, they are being dominated and their economy is in bad shape and they have to be reunited (is the message of the proclamation) … there’s nothing inspiring about it, just old narratives regurgitated,” he was reported as saying by New Straits Times.
“It’s the same old thing as the Malay Dignity Congress and the Malay Economics Resolution. There’s just nothing new here.
“I think the Malays should not give too much attention to such proclamations but rather demand for better execution of effective social-economic policies.”
According to Mohd Azmi, it was unsurprising that the former prime minister would start drumming up support from the Malay community after having lost much political influence.
He further also dismissed Dr Mahathir’s claims that the Malays have lost political power, noting that it was simply baseless rhetoric.
“Leave out Penang and all the other states are governed by Malay menteri besars and chief ministers. In fact, the federal government’s Cabinet is filled with Malay leaders. What is he really talking about?” Mohd Azmi questioned.
“Furthermore, the current government has already pledged commitment that it will not let the Malays go poor. It’s not about making proclamations but it’s about action and execution of policies that matter here.”
On May 3, several PAS leaders signed the so-called Malay Proclamation document, a12-point document that calls for the Malay community to unite to “save” their race.
Meanwhile, Mohd Azmi also issued a reminder to those involved in an alleged plot to topple the coalition government that any administration would have a hard time navigating a challenging political and economic climate.
“No matter who leads the country, we will always face mounting challenges… there’s no guarantee they would succeed,” he was reported as saying.
“I think the opposition should instead focus on their responsibility for an effective check and balance to help the country navigate a challenging global political and economic climate.” – May 11, 2023
Main pic credit: Utusan Malaysia
