MUKTAMAR Sepang MP Mohd Hanipa Maidin has reminded delegates not to solely focus on implementing Syariah law while not understanding the fundamental philosophy of having such laws.

Using Pakistan as an example, Mohd Hanipa, who is also a newly elected PAS central committee member and legal adviser, said when its president Zia Ul Haq introduced hudud laws, the country faced problems and criticism following it being plagued by issues of transparency.

NONE Admitting that he is not an ulama, Hanipa said one of the foundations of Syariah is hikmah (blessings) and fairness.

"Hence, if it (Syariah law) is implemented but it imposes problems, it would be a futile effort. Syariah should not be seen as wanting to punish only," he warned.

Mohd Hanipa was responding to criticism from the Federal Territory delegate Kamaruzzaman Mohamad, that the party should not shy away from implementing Syariah law if it wins.

He pointed out that despite being a first-term MP, he noticed that PAS has managed to raise the understanding of many other MPs including from the DAP on the benefits of Syariah law, and some have grown to understand and accept its benefits as compared to the past.

The PAS central committee member reminded that Islam is a blessing for mankind and hence the need to educate and continue to propagate Syariah law to make others better understand its principles.

"There is a need for people to understand for them to be convinced in its implementation.

"It is of no use if it is implemented but there is no transparency," he said.

No concern on oppressive laws?

Mohd Hanipa also pointed out that he is also concerned that the delegates at this muktamar did not touch on other pressing issues concerning the amendment of the Prevention of Crime Act, the Security Measures Act (Sosma) and also Penal Code.

He said the issue was previously debated at length by various MPs from Pakatan lasting until 1am in opposing such amendments.

"I am also concerned that this issue was not raised by any of the delegates and the party president also did not raise the issue in his policy speech," he said.

He cited for example, that the amendment of the PCA was reinstating the spirit of the repealed Internal Security Act.

Such issues have to be continuously highlighted and opposed as such laws are discriminatory, said Hanipa.