Messages of multiracial, multireligious unity like those expressed by PAS secretary-general Takiyuddin Hassan in a Deepavali greeting should not only be limited to festive seasons, said a DAP leader.

Johor DAP vice-chief Sheik Umar Bagharib Ali urged the Islamist party to instead fully embrace unity.

"In the Malaysia Madani era led by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, PAS should leave behind racist politics.

"Unfortunately, the weaponisation of race and religion are still being used by PAS through the remarks of some leaders," Umar (above) said in a statement today.

"If the PAS secretary-general’s message is serious, there must be a holistic embrace down to the grassroots and not be just a sweet greeting during festivities," he added.

Perak PAS chief Razman Zakaria

Umar cited Perak PAS chief Razman Zakaria's call for those with “eyes, skin, and blood” like his to unite as an example.

READ MORE: DAP is principled but has extremist tendencies - Razman

Razman - who had made the remarks in an anti-China flag-waving rally - has denied that he was being racist.

Not long after Razman's remarks, Takiyuddin released a Deepavali message on behalf of PAS, calling for unity among all Malaysians, especially in the pursuit of truth and justice.

Make differences an asset, not poison, says PAS in Deepavali message

Make differences an asset, not poison, says PAS in Deepavali message

Inspired by PAS, Hanipa calculates the 'DAP threat'

Inspired by PAS, Hanipa calculates the 'DAP threat'

Thomas: M'sia's obsession with race, religion an obstacle to unity

Thomas: M'sia's obsession with race, religion an obstacle to unity

Islam never taught us to make enemies based on eye, skin, or blood - Rafizi

Islam never taught us to make enemies based on eye, skin, or blood - Rafizi