PAS' non-Muslim wing urges Zakir watch his words

The PAS supporters' wing is urging preacher Dr Zakir Naik not to speak about religions other than Islam nor the loyalties of non-Muslim Malaysian citizens.

The wing's secretary S Barathidasan said Zakir should respect basic human rights and not issue statements on race and religion which can affect Malaysians.

"Citizens of this multi-ethnic and multi-religious country always maintain good ties... to ensure we live in peace and harmony," said Barathidasan in a statement today.

He also urged the preacher to seek the advice of PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang on Malaysia's circumstances.

Zakir has come under fire for his Aug 8 speech in Kelantan where he claimed that Hindus in Malaysia are loyal to the Indian prime minister, but not the Malaysian premier.

He also courted flak for suggesting that the Chinese community are "old guests" in Malaysia who should leave before demanding that he leaves.

Zakir is a wanted man in his home country of India and is seeking refuge in Malaysia.

Barathidasan said the PAS' supporters wing does not question the legitimacy of Zakir's permanent residency, and also praised PAS for their treatment of non-Muslims in Kelantan and Terengganu.

"Non-Muslims are not sidelined in Kelantan and Terengganu. They are given roles in the state governments as special officers to the menteri besar, are members of local government councils, become village chiefs and other roles, in line with PAS' slogan 'PAS for all'," he said.