Selangor PAS: Betting outlets won't be shut if we take power

Selangor PAS commissioner Ab Halim Tamuri has promised that sports betting outlets in the state would not be shut down if the party takes over the state government.

Addressing public concerns that the Islamist party might impose stricter religious policies if it takes power in Selangor, he said the state’s multiracial population requires policies that differ from the PAS governments of Kelantan, Terengganu, Kedah, and Perlis, where the population is overwhelmingly Malay.

“It’s not possible for us to take over and close down outlets the next day. We will hold consultations and studies before making any decision.

“We are a democracy - consensus must come first,” he said during a courtesy visit by Selangor PAS representatives to the China Press headquarters in Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur, yesterday in conjunction with the Mid-Autumn Festival.

Rejecting claims that PAS lacks the ability to govern urban areas, the Paya Jaras assemblyperson pointed to his own mixed constituency, which includes urban townships such as Sungai Buloh New Town and Saujana Utama.

“Urban governance is not an issue. Voters today focus on capable individuals. PAS has attracted professionals and academics from various backgrounds to build a better government,” he said.

According to China Press, Halim also stressed that PAS has evolved, saying misconceptions among non-Muslims often stem from outdated stereotypes.

“Many still associate PAS with rural Malays, which may have been true 20 years ago, but we have changed. Our concept of ‘PAS for all’ means caring for everyone’s welfare, Muslim or non-Muslim - no one will be left behind,” he said.

Takeover on the horizon?

Halim claimed the Perikatan Nasional coalition is just a few seats away from taking control of Pahang, Perak, and Selangor.

“In Selangor, we are only five seats short, in Pahang three, and in Perak four - we are very close.

“Based on current trends, we are confident of forming the next state governments,” he said.

Based on checks, PN actually needs eight more seats to take over Selangor and five more for Pahang, while the claim of four more seats to take over Perak is accurate.

Halim added that PAS will do its utmost to work with its PN partners to win the three states.

Disputes deepen bonds

Commenting on recent internal disputes in PN, Halim likened them to disagreements in a marriage, saying such issues, if managed properly, can strengthen ties.

“Like a couple, sometimes the more they argue, the stronger the bond. What matters is how we resolve conflicts.

“PN leaders have handled differences well, bringing issues to the table for discussion. There is no hierarchy among member parties, only consultation before any decision,” he said.

Halim added that PN has yet to decide on its prime minister candidate, saying each party has its own preference, but the immediate goal is to win the next general election before discussing leadership.

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