Penang executive councillor Abdul Malik Kassim has refuted PAS' complaint that the state government interferes in the appointment of the party’s candidates for key posts in state departments, agencies or government-linked companies.

The posts are in the state Islamic Affairs Council (Maipp), municipal councils of Penang and Seberang Prai, and village development and security committees (JKKKs) located in every constituency.

NONE "If they have issues with the state government, they should bring it up via the right channels. That means (they should) bring it up at the Pakatan Rakyat council meetings," said Abdul Malik, who oversees the Islamic affairs portfolio.

Penang PAS deputy commissioner Muhammad Fauzi Yusoff (left) had alleged yesterday there has been no such council meeting in the state since the May 5 general election.

Asked to comment, Malik replied: "There are the presidential council meetings (for the central leadership) at which the issues can be raised.”

He further reminded PAS that its leaders also have direct access to members of the state executive council, including Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng.

Muhammad Fauzi had said that the state government has ignored letters sent before and after the general election, seeking meetings with key state leaders to discuss several issues.

Malik said he has only received one letter - from the PAS leadership last month - which was actually a response to his request for names nominated for Maipp's new committee.

The two-year term of the current committee expires at the end of the year and approval from the Agong is necessary before a new team is formed.

Malik, who is also state PKR vice-president, claimed he has good relations with Penang PAS commissioner Salleh Man.

Salleh is Maipp president and holds key posts in the state Fatwa Council and Penang Islamic Foundation.

‘Constant consultation’

Malik further denied that PAS’ claim that it is being marginalised, adding that the party continues to be consulted on decisions regarding state policies before implementation.

penang pas announce candidate 100413 07 salleh man "If I were to speak to Salleh (left) , isn’t it as good as speaking to PAS?" Malik posed.

"If Salleh speaks to (Penang PKR chairperson) Mansor Othman, isn't it as good as speaking to PKR? If Salleh or Mansor or I speak with Lim, isn't it as good as speaking to DAP?

"We have been in constant consultation and discussion and we have managed to settle a lot of issues at state level.”

On the appointment of JKKK members, Malik said this is an "age-old issue" and declined to comment further.

Despite several attempts to contact him since yesterday’s press conference, Salleh did not respond.

Immediately following media reports on yesterday’s PAS press conference, Lim requested a copy of the party’s statement containing six demands.

It is also learnt that the issues - which have led Penang PAS to put its foot down in dealing with Pakatan allies in the state - will be raised by delegates at the upcoming muktamar.