Criticism against the PAS Youth gathering called “Himpunan Pemuda Islam Terengganu” (Himpit) is an overreaction by the public, a Bersatu leader has said.

“I think this is an overreaction by the public, especially... sorry to say, the non-Malays and non-Muslims.

“They (PAS Youth) were having their jamboree, their private event for the party. It’s like a cosplay event, just dramatising historical period,” said Bersatu Youth chief Wan Ahmad Fayhsal Wan Ahmad Kamal (above).

He was speaking to reporters at the Kuala Lumpur court complex today.

The Machang MP was at the court to accompany Bersatu information chief Wan Saiful Wan Jan who was charged with graft.

Fayhsal was commenting on the procession of PAS members bearing replicas of medieval weapons and armour in Setiu, Terengganu, last Friday.

Photos of the procession went viral, causing a stir on social media amid continued political tensions in the country.

‘More pressing matters at hand’

Elaborating, Fayhsal said that as a “partner” of PAS in the Perikatan Nasional (PN) coalition, he is sure the latter is not aggressive, does not support aggression using weapons, nor sends wrong messages about Islam.

“This misunderstanding should be nipped in the bud and the media should allow PAS members to explain to the public thoroughly. I think they (PAS) have explained, justified pretty much.”

He also said there are more important matters for the government to handle.

“I think there are more pressing matters at hand - the cost of living, corruption, the National Higher Education Corporation Fund (PTPTN) loans... why should we drown these issues?

“The PAS parade was just to show the historical narrative of Islam in the past, that’s all,” he said.

PAS deputy president Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man previously defended the procession, likening it to “Chinese opera” where the actors carry swords and spears and said the matter should not be blown out of proportion.

Terengganu Pakatan Harapan chairperson Raja Kamarul Bahrin Shah Raja Ahmad has lodged a police report over the event, saying it was an act to intimidate and cause anxiety among the public.

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