Cronyism, and dark economic elements are hands behind Malaysia's political scene
SHAH ALAM - Pas is claiming that there are dark economic elements and cronies of capitalism attempting to determine the political direction of the country, thereby becoming the real enemies of Islam.
Crony capitalism refers to individuals or businesspeople who accumulate wealth and secure projects through special relationships with influential leaders in the government.
Meanwhile,dark economic elements include illegal activities such as gambling and prostitution in the country.
A member of the party's Central Working Committee Dr. Mohd Zuhdi Marzuki stated that this is a problem that cannot be resolved within the context of Malaysian politics.
"Whether we realize it or not, Malaysian politics is not solely driven by politicians. The determinants are two groups, namely the players of the dark economy and cronies of capitalism.
"We have been informed that Malaysia ranks third in practicing crony capitalism, behind Russia and Venezuela," he said this during the Sinar Siri 405 discourse entitled 'State Polls: Many Unresolved Issues?' held at the Karangkraf Group Complex on Tuesday.
The program hosted by Ismail Adnan also featured three other panelists: Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu) Supreme Leadership Council member Dr. Mohd Yadzil Yaakub; Terengganu Umno Chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Said; and DAP Central Committee RSN Rayer.
Mohd Zuhdi clarified that these are the groups to which Pas President Tan Seri Abdul Hadi Awang has been referring to in his speeches and writings all along, and not political opponents.
"When the President writes and speaks, he is referring to these groups.
"For example, those who oppose Pas are those who lack faith and morals. It is not directed at opponents and political adversaries.
"However, those involved in gambling and illicit economic activities like prostitution are the ones influencing Malaysian politics," he claimed.
Furthermore, Mohd Zuhdi added that these influential groups operate behind the political scenes of the country.
However, Ahmad Said who was part of the panel, contradicted Mohd Zuhdi's views, stating that as a religious leader, Abdul Hadi should speak clearly on the matter.
"I disagree because this statement has a double meaning. A religious leader should speak plainly and not hide behind arguments.
"For example, in the past, there was an issue of the legitimacy of marriages and consuming food from Barisan Nasional.
"Abdul Hadi was evasive on this matter. So, as a religious leader, he should clarify each point," he said.
