DAP Penang has announced its readiness to seek funding from famous cultural figures, to hold courses and provide an understanding of Chinese surnames to PAS leaders and members.
According to a report by Malaysia Gazette, DAP Penang Secretary, Phee Boon Chee, shared that this initiative was conceived in response to a statement issued by PAS Secretary, Ahmad Fadhli, who criticised a University Professor’s suggestion that PAS hold the cultural course for their members.
Phee also explained that the courses may help to overcome misunderstandings and myths relating to Chinese surnames, which are often brought up by PAS leaders.
“If PAS truly understands the customs and cultures of non-Malay communities, then why does the party repeatedly make incorrect statements and offend the feelings of non-Malay communities, especially the Chinese?” he questioned.
Phee further dug into the history of PAS and the lawsuits they faced when it comes to the surnames of Chinese politicians, including how Perak PAS Chairman, Razman Zakaria, had linked Youth and Sports Minister, Hannah Yeoh, to YTL Group founder, the late Tan Sri Dr Yeoh Tiong Lay.
He also brought up how PAS MP Siti Mastura had linked DAP leaders to the former Prime Minister of Singapore, with communist ties through ‘cousin’ relationships, leaving her with a hefty RM825,000 defamation bill.
“In this regard, we are ready to seek funds and obtain support from cultural figures to ensure that PAS leaders and members truly understand the Chinese cultural background,”
He added that PAS has become an irresponsible party when it comes to maintaining relations between races.
“In fact, the party is no longer serious about implementing mature and prosperous politics, but instead relies on lies, slander and criticism to maintain its political influence. If PAS is truly sincere in wanting to change, then the first step that can be taken is to understand the origins of the Chinese community’s surnames,” he added.
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