Why is Umno’s Lokman accused of using religion for image boost?

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Umno's Lokman Accused of Leveraging Religion for Political Gain in Sungai Kandis By-Election

Umno candidate Datuk Lokman Noor Adam is facing accusations of exploiting religious sentiments to enhance his public image during the Sungai Kandis by-election campaign. These allegations stem from specific campaign statements and promises made by Lokman, which critics argue are designed to incite fear and promote his candidacy by appealing to religious and ethnic sensitivities prevalent in Malaysia. Selangor Mentri Besar Amirudin Shari has been particularly vocal, asserting that Lokman's rhetoric is a tactic for self-promotion rather than a genuine commitment to Islamic development, especially when his opponent is an "ustaz" with established religious credentials.
Allegations of Fear-Mongering and Misrepresentation

Lokman has been accused of employing a campaign strategy that can easily incite fear and panic among voters. A key point of contention is his assertion that the Democratic Action Party (DAP) is exerting undue influence over Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, with the alleged aim of establishing Christianity as the nation's official religion. This claim taps into historical and ongoing anxieties within certain segments of the Malaysian population regarding the country's religious balance and the position of Islam. By framing the ruling Pakatan Harapan (PH) coalition as a threat to Islam, Lokman appears to be attempting to consolidate support from Malay-Muslim voters by positioning himself as their protector.
Promises to Protect Religious Institutions

Further to his broad accusations, Lokman made a specific pledge to "protect" Maahad Tahfiz Al Fateh, a religious school, from potential "harassment" by PH supporters should he win the by-election. Notably, the principal of this tahfiz school is Lokman's direct rival in the Sungai Kandis contest, Mohd Zawawi Ahmad Mughni, who is the candidate for PH and an "ustaz" himself. This promise can be interpreted as an attempt to create a narrative where Lokman is the guardian of religious institutions against the very coalition that fielded a religious scholar. This tactic seeks to rally support by highlighting a perceived vulnerability and presenting himself as the solution, thereby bolstering his image as a devout defender of Islamic interests.
Political Context and Counter-Arguments

The Sungai Kandis by-election itself is taking place in a politically charged environment, following the vacancy of the seat due to the passing of the incumbent. Within this context, Amirudin Shari has highlighted the irony of Lokman's religious appeals, pointing out that PH's candidate, Mohd Zawawi Ahmad Mughni, is a respected "ustaz," a "nadzir" (trustee), an imam, and a community leader. This fact underscores Amirudin's argument that Lokman's campaign is not about genuine Islamic leadership but rather a calculated effort to gain political mileage. Amirudin has also contrasted Lokman's approach with PH's track record, citing the coalition's consistent efforts in building religious schools, providing financial contributions to mosques and suraus, and their commitment to protecting Malay reserve land as evidence of their genuine dedication to Islamic development and the rights of Muslims in Selangor.
Religious and Cultural Sensitivities in Malaysian Politics

The accusations against Lokman are particularly resonant given Malaysia's multi-ethnic and multi-religious composition, where religion and ethnicity are often intertwined in the political landscape. Umno, historically the dominant Malay nationalist party, has often relied on appeals to Malay identity and Islamic values to maintain its support base. Conversely, the PH coalition, while including Malay-Muslim parties like PKR and Amanah, also comprises multi-ethnic parties such as DAP. This diversity can be a source of strength but also a target for opponents who seek to sow division by playing on religious and ethnic anxieties. The strategic use of religious rhetoric, as seen in Lokman's campaign, is a recurring theme in Malaysian politics, where such appeals can be potent in mobilizing specific voter segments, especially during closely contested elections like the Sungai Kandis by-election.

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Why is Umno’s Lokman accused of using religion for image boost?

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