Umno-PAS an alliance of 'inclusive politics'

It’s easy to fear-monger over this weekend’s perpaduan (unity) ummah between PAS and Umno. But the truth is that this is a number game. It’s maths. Simple as that. Alliances between political parties happen in every democratic country.

Will it lead to more racial politics? For now, it’s too early to say. The truth is that I see this alliance as a measure of hope. It’s an opportunity for two big parties in Malaysia to come together and collectively provide alternative policies to the Malaysian public.

I’m hoping we can use this new platform to reignite the debate of retracting SST. I’m hoping we can use this platform to argue why public transportation should be more prioritised over a flying car. More and more sound inclusive policies need to be introduced by Umno and PAS.

I view this as an opportunity for all Malaysians who are tired of the current racial divide due to the directionless leadership and broken promises, to start a conversation of rebuilding a tolerant society and resilient economy again. This alliance must guarantee all races receive the rightful and fair chances to pursue their dreams.

Again, just as DAP and PKR did in the past, this new alliance is and always has been a game of logic. The Pakatan Harapan leaders who are fear-mongering are only shooting themselves in the foot and exposing their Islamophobia.

The hard truth is also that an alliance like this, whilst providing concrete policies, can also bring about more assurance for the majority, the segment who have been most disheartened since Harapan’s rise.

KHAIRUL AZWAN HARUN is an Umno senator

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