MUKTAMAR PAS is in the process of transformation, discarding rhetoric and embracing a more mature brand of politics as part of its preparation to rule the nation, says its president Abdul Hadi Awang.

Therefore, Hadi said, the Islamic party does not wish to oppose all government initiatives as some of them are beneficial to the people.

Hadi pointed out that PAS wants to provide solutions, and not mere grandiloquence in the political arena.

"In order to assume the responsibility as government in the future, PAS needs to prepare itself for the role of governing (the country). Hence, the orientation now is different.

"Not just opposing, but providing solutions based on an Islamic approach to the shortcomings, be it in economic, political or social matters.

"Politics that is extreme and abrasive can cause the people to be trapped and no longer have faith in the promises made by the government or opposition," Hadi said when officially opening the PAS Muktamar in Kota Baru this morning.

'Propagate the principle of Islam'

In relation to this, the Marang MP advised party members to propagate the principle of Islam as the harbinger of blessings to all creation and not make use of the religion for whatever purpose.

“We must not be confused and entranced by the arguments of the few who hide behind the treasure trove of Islamic knowledge.

“We want to bring Islam so that it can be the blessings for all, the genuine Islam, not make use of the religion in a country such as Malaysia,” he said

Thus, Hadi said, PAS would sit in discussion with anyone with an open heart and open mind, in order to talk about any issue that involves the interests of Muslims, even with the government.

“(PAS) will, with an open mind and heart, sit in discussions with all to talk about shared interests involving Muslims, the rakyat in general, as well as the country.

“We are prepared to take all that is good and accept it with grace, even if it comes from the powers that be, as we wait as the government-in-waiting. We will treat everyone fairly even our political enemies,” he added.