Mahathir attends PAS muktamar, greeted by chants of 'takbir'

PAS MUKTAMAR | Former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad attended the 69th PAS Muktamar in Shah Alam today.

The arrival of the former Umno president-cum-arch nemesis of PAS was greeted with chants of “takbir” (God is great) by the delegates.

Mahathir's arrival as a guest of honour was announced by PAS secretary-general Takiyuddin Hassan. Also present were the Islamist party's president Abdul Hadi Awang, and Perikatan Nasional chairperson-cum-Bersatu president Muhyiddin Yassin.

In December 2016, Mahathir also sprung a surprise when he attended DAP's 50th National Convention. In fact, the former Langkawi MP sat on the same stage with senior party leaders, such as Lim Kit Siang, as well as DAP founder-cum-adviser Dr Chen Man Hin.

Today, the nonagenarian, clad in black baju melayu and songkok, stood on the stage and posed for photographs with Hadi by his side.

Meanwhile, Hadi in his policy speech acknowledged Mahathir as the adviser of four state governments helmed by the Islamist party (SG4).

"Mahathir, as the honorary adviser of SG4, serves as a bridge to domestic and foreign investors, and Muhyiddin, as the head of PN, guides us. Both are former prime ministers and their contributions are very precious," he said.

Mahathir is speculated to be considering a comeback to Parliament through a by-election in Kemaman, a stronghold for PAS.

However, PAS is still uncertain about the possibility at this point.

At a press conference later, Hadi dismissed speculations about Mahathir being fielded in Kemaman.

"Not, not possible," he said briefly when asked about talks on the matter.

However, Hadi stressed that candidacy for the seat is still being discussed.

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