A PAS leader’s warning that Perak could experience an unrest similar to Thailand if the state assembly is not dissolved has drawn flak from newly-appointed Home Minister Hishammuddin Hussein.

Terming it as an irresponsible statement, he said there were numerous democratic channels for PAS to express their grouses and there was no need for street demonstrations.

hishammuddin hussein ppsmi languanges debate issue 260209 05 "To give the impression that they want to riot and demonstrate like in Thailand is a wrong move.

"People will reject this kind of culture because it will affect the economy and national security," he told reporters after his maiden visit to the Home Ministry in Putrajaya today.

"Don't risk lives, peace and security just because you are in a rush for power," he added.

Hishammuddin was responding to PAS secretary-general Kamaruddin Jaaffar's statement which appeared in the opposition party's organ Harakah yesterday.

"The Bukit Gantang by-election is a people's referendum against Barisan Nasional who took over the Perak government through immoral means in February. If the state assembly is not dissolved, PAS is worried that the situation in Thailand may recur in Perak. If it happens, it will be worse.

"The (new) Prime Minister (Najib Abdul Razak) has seen for himself the situation in Pattaya when the people were not happy with a takeover of government. So the premier must act immediately," he had said.

According to Utusan Malaysia today, Umno vice-president and Perak Umno deputy chief Ahmad Zahid Hamidi also criticised Kamaruddin for the statement, adding that it was seditious.

Terengganu Umno must close ranks

In another development, Hishammuddin urged Terengganu Umno to close ranks amidst the ongoing political crisis there.

He said Umno should be united especially after a new line-up for party leadership has been elected during the party general assembly last month.

"We must prove that we have a new line-up that is strong, sincere, honest and forward looking that is capable of fulfilling the people’s aspirations," he said.

As for MIC's threat to pull out of from the cabinet, Hishammuddin said only a handful of its leaders hold that position.

He said there is adequate channels for MIC leaders to address their issues through BN and all component party leaders ought to close ranks.

"The important thing is MIC has a cabinet minister. What is more important? Chasing after positions or having our voices heard in the highest decision-making body (of the country)?" he asked.