BALAKONG POLLS | History was made last night after PAS secretary-general Takiyuddin Hassan made an appearance at an MCA event to support their candidate Tan Chee Teong.

This came about despite MCA’s long history of attacking PAS over its ambitions to turn Malaysia into a theocratic state.

Takiyuddin appeared at an MCA stage at the predominantly Malay neighbourhood of Taman Tun Perak, where he spoke about the need for check-and-balance.

“Our country has faced a political tsunami, and it brought the change of government, from the federal level to the states. We changed it from BN to Pakatan Harapan.

“Many had thought that Harapan will be a good government, reliable government and a government that brings hopes. But, it’s actually the government that has no hope and is destroying the people’s hopes,” Takiyuddin told the crowd of some 20 people.

Hence, he emphasised the concept of “check and balance” promoted by MCA, and urged the people, not only the members and supporters of PAS, but all the people from Balakong to support Tan (photo).

Speaking to reporters later, Takiyuddin said PAS was backing MCA for the Balakong by-election in the spirit of opposition solidarity, which was espoused by PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang.

He said PAS has dedicated its resources to helping its candidate for the Seri Setia by-election and could only help MCA now.

“From tonight onwards, we will be in Balakong. We will follow MCA. If MCA has an event, we will make ourselves available,” he said.

'A healthy start'

On MCA’s opposition to PAS’ ideology, particularly on the implementation of hudud (punishment under syariah law), Takiyuddin said this was not a problem.

He said non-Muslims misunderstood hudud and PAS would continue to explain its position.

“This is a Muslim (affair). Nothing to do with non-Muslims,” he said.

Asked if PAS members will have misgivings about MCA, Takiyuddin confidently said PAS members will follow Hadi’s order to back the opposition.

“You have to bear in mind that the votes (PAS received in Balakong) were higher than BN in GE14,” he said.

During the May 9 election for Balakong, PAS came in second while MCA was last. Both parties lost their deposits.

Takiyuddin said PAS had already been working with MCA, MIC and Umno in Parliament by providing check-and-balance, which was “good for the nation, good for the people”.

On whether PAS will forge a permanent working relationship with MCA and MIC, Takiyuddin replied: “Tonight is a healthy start”.

Takiyuddin was seen chatting with MCA president Liow Tiong Lai and Senator Ti Lian Ker - both vocal PAS critics in the past - before and after the event.

When met later, MCA deputy president Wee Ka Siong said Takiyuddin appeared at the event uninvited.