The PAS consultative council or syura has no qualms in coming out with a clear guideline and policy on the issue of entertainment, said its deputy head Dr Harun Din today.

However, he added that there has been no specific request for the council, which is responsible for issuing edicts on party practices and policies, to discuss the matter.

The issue has become a hot topic among party members who are at odds over the invitation of the PAS-ruled Kelantan government's move to stage a concert featuring teen singing sensation Asmawi Nani, popularly known as Mawi.

The Sept 30 concert will be held in the state capital, Kota Baru on the eve of its declaration as an Islamic city.

Tedious process

"Yes we had talked about this but in private discussions among ourselves. Nothing formal. Unless there is a real complaint, grouses or confusion on any issue, we can't simply come out with a guideline or a policy," said Harun when contacted.

"Issuing policy is quite a tedious process because we have to compile information - both pros and cons - of a particular issue. Then we have to have discussions and come to a consensus on the best policy," he added.

On the same note, he agreed that latest developments in the party suggest that it is time for a clear guideline or policy on entertainment.

PAS youth wing had fuelled debates when its leaders expressed interest to engage with local artistes , including Siti Nurhaliza and Mawi.

Kelantan Menteri Besar and PAS spiritual leader (musrsyidul am) Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat also became embroiled in the controversy by agreeing to the concert and openly expressing admiration for Mawi.

Not forbidden

Speaking in his personal capacity, Harun, a respected Islamic scholar, said entertainment as a social activity in general is not forbidden by the religion.

"But at the same time not all types of entertainment can be allowed. Singing for example is not totally prohibited," added the PAS deputy musrsyidul am.

He then cited a few incidents in the time of Prophet Muhammad which showed that singing and entertainment was permitted.

"The prophet and (his wife) Aisyah attended social gatherings where there was entertainment. He also never stopped Aisyah from singing along with two other young girls.

"In Medina, the prophet had attended a gathering where there was singing and people playing the drums. So basically singing is okay," he said.

However, he noted that entertainment today is a far cry from the past.

"Unlike the past, singing is now a profession to many, including women... and sometimes featuring fashion and performance that could lead to social decay. So this is where the prohibition comes in," he said.

Meanwhile, Nik Aziz yesterday defended the concert as a platform to provide 'alternative entertainment' for Mawi and his fans.

"I accept the protests in good nature but I want to ask them this: how do they feel about the kind of entertainment that is presently available...Don't just (complain) tell us the alternative way to save this youths (from social illness)," he was quoted as saying in the party organ, Harakah daily .

According to him, Mawi and his fans 'can be saved' by providing them with platforms to enjoy entertainment without transgressing the religion.