PAS in Pahang has given Malaysians an “illustration” of what the country would be like if they win the 16th General Election (GE16).
All gambling premises would be shut down and yes, that includes the biggest casino in Malaysia – Genting Highlands.
For illustration purposes only
While this sounds like a plan for PAS, the deputy commissioner of PAS Pahang, Datuk Andansura Rabu admitted that they would have to refer to the existing laws.
“We have to refer to the laws and if we have the power at the state level to do so, we will definitely do so,” Andansura said at a press conference in Temerloh yesterday (September 15), which was shared on PAS’ Facebook page.
He added that, for example, the power may not be absolute for PAS to shut down the Genting Highland’s casino, because they need Federal power, so they may not be able to do that.
“We can close a premise, but in the matter of a casino like in Genting Highland, we need to see from a legal point of view whether the state government can shut it down.”
Regardless, PAS vows to eliminate anything that will bring harm to the people, and the party is ready to take action according to the law that is within the scope of its jurisdiction.
PAS also assured Malaysians that there is nothing personal and religious in this.
“All religions do not allow gambling, so this is merely a social issue. We take care of the social welfare and well-being of the people. So, if the people of Pahang don’t fancy gambling, they’ll have to support PAS,” he explained.
Pahang PAS Commissioner Rosli Jabar said the matter is in line with PAS Muktamar – Islam is the solution.
Kedah MB has also closed down all gambling premises in the state, and as of March 2024, the Perlis state government also announced that the state is officially free from gambling premises.
What do you think of PAS’ take on this? Will those in Pahang ever see the state becoming a gambling-free zone?
Also read: “Disguised as phone accessory shops” – Kelantan Records Highest Number of Online Gambling Cases
