Why does PAS link Malay-Muslim unity to opposition against DAP?

Question

Accepted Answer

PAS's Reliance on DAP as a Political Adversary for Malay-Muslim Unity

PAS, particularly under Hadi Awang's leadership, frequently links the concept of Malay-Muslim unity to opposition against the Democratic Action Party (DAP). This strategy is employed to foster a sense of solidarity among Malay Muslims by presenting DAP as an external threat that purportedly hinders their collective progress and political control. This narrative allows PAS to bypass or downplay internal divisions within Malay politics by focusing on a common, albeit manufactured, adversary.
The "Bogeyman" Strategy to Unite Malay Politics

The assertion that DAP obstructs Malay-Muslim unity serves as a political tool for PAS. By portraying DAP as a controlling force that prevents Malays and Muslims from uniting, PAS creates an external enemy around which competing Malay political factions can theoretically rally. This approach conveniently sidesteps the deeper, more complex issue of fragmentation within Malay politics itself, which has historically been driven by disagreements among Malay leaders and parties, such as the decades-long conflict between Umno and PAS, the formation of PKR, and the split within PAS that led to Amanah.
DAP's Limited Influence vs. PAS's Narrative

Despite PAS's claims, DAP's actual influence within Malaysia's political and constitutional framework is portrayed as limited and not systemic. While DAP participates in government and has elected representatives, its capacity to control the nation's institutions, including the monarchy, Islamic administration, civil service, or security forces, is exceedingly remote given Malaysia's dispersed power structure. The narrative of DAP's omnipotence is thus seen as a strategic ruse by PAS to generate fear and maintain internal cohesion, rather than a reflection of reality.
Internal Malay Political Disagreements as the True Obstacle

The fragmentation of Malay political power predates DAP's significant participation in federal government. Historical instances, such as the enduring rivalry between Umno and PAS since 1951, the emergence of PKR from a split in Malay politics in 1998, and Amanah's departure from PAS in 2017, all underscore that disagreements among Malay political leaders and parties are the primary drivers of disunity. Furthermore, ongoing disputes between PAS and its Perikatan Nasional partner, Barisan Nasional, regarding seat allocations and leadership highlight the persistent internal conflicts that PAS's focus on DAP conveniently overlooks.
Redefining Unity Beyond Opposition

The concept of "Malay-Muslim unity" is questioned when it is primarily defined by opposition to another community or party, transforming it into political exclusion rather than genuine social solidarity. True Malay-Muslim cooperation, it is argued, should be directed towards positive goals such as improving education, combating corruption, strengthening families, ensuring good governance, and promoting justice, compassion, and knowledge. By consistently framing DAP as the sole obstacle to unity, PAS's narrative is seen as intellectually hollow and strategically self-defeating, failing to address the real issues faced by Malays and fostering insecurity rather than confidence.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

Why does PAS link Malay-Muslim unity to opposition against DAP?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

2

0

0

Share with friends