PAS spiritual advisor Nik Aziz Nik Mat has today compared the struggle of his Muslim-based opposition party in Malaysia with the oppression of the Palestinians by Israel.

"I just came back from Jordan (which borders Israel), and I'm saddened to see how well equipped the Israelis are. They have weapons in the land, sea and air, while the Palestinians have nothing,'' he said in Kelantan this afternoon.

"In this regard, PAS is like the Palestinians, which has nothing, while its foe, who is akin to Jews, is armed to the teeth,'' said the Kelantan menteri besar with a wry smile, obviously referring to the ruling Umno party.

According to Nik Aziz, if political tussles in Malaysia are held according to "democratic principles", then the resulting "injuries" would still be repairable.

"But if not, the resulting wounds would be deep and grievous. As such, please convey my message that if (PAS' foe) wants to slug it out, then let it happen over the democratic platform. If you want to fight, do it in a gentlemanly fashion.

"Do not lash out at us in anger or spite,'' said Nik Aziz, who quoted what Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad had said in regard to Muslim activism against its enemies.

Trade boycott

In reference to championing the cause of the Palestinians, the prime minister had remarked yesterday at the Palestine and Humanity Forum that when "Muslims act out of anger, it would not help in achieving their objectives or finding a solution to their problems".

Nik Aziz also said that Mahathir should convey Malaysia's objection to the violent methods of Israel when the latter meets with US president George W Bush next week.

"However, we hope that the country will launch a boycott of Israel and American goods as mere protests do not work as far as Israel is concerned.

"Jews, who are not capable of any good, only understand the language of trade sanctions and guns," he lamented.

Mohd Irfan Isa is malaysiakini 's Kelantan correspondent.