Nik Aziz taken to task

PEKAN: Politicians from both sides of the divide have criticised the “lost soul” remark by PAS spiritual leader Datuk Nik Aziz Nik Mat.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said PAS was harping on an old issue which the Government had replied to many times.

“I don't know whether they can consider themselves relevant anymore if they continue to harp on old issues,” he told reporters after presenting prizes to winners of Datuk Seri Najib Trophy golf tournament held in conjunction with the Pekan Fest here.

On Saturday, Nik Aziz was quoted as saying that Malays who voted for non-Islamic parties were lost (souls).

Najib said Umno had always ensured that the sanctity of Islam continued to be protected and promoted at the best level.

An encouraging word: Najib talking to the job seekers at an exhibition held during Pekan Fest on Sunday.

DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng said he was sad over such a statement, adding that while Nik Aziz was entitled to his own view, it was time to put behind racial and religious aspects and work towards achieving national unity.

“Due to such thinking, DAP finds it hard to cooperate with PAS as such sentiments are unhealthy in a multiracial country,'' he said noting that there were non-Muslims who voted for Islamic parties.

MCA secretary-general Datuk Ong Ka Chuan said he was disappointed that a state leader could make comments that could hamper nation building.

“I am sure Nik Aziz receives votes from all races, and being the Kelantan Mentri Besar, he should be more cautious when making statements that could hurt the feelings of people of different faiths,” he said.

MIC vice-president Datuk S. Veerasingam said Malaysia was an example of people of different faiths living in peace and harmony and such remarks could jeopardise the peace and harmony in the country.

Parti Keadilan Rakyat information chief Tian Chua said that Nik Aziz was probably taking a theological point of view which could not be applied in the country's political situation.