SHAH ALAM, Malaysia - The recent political reversal of Nik Mohamad Abduh Nik Abdul Aziz is not surprising, given his strong resemblance to his father, Tan Sri Nik Aziz Nik Mat, in unwaveringly championing the cause of Pas, said Pas leader Datuk Ahmad Amzad Hashim.
Ahmad Amzad, who is also a former deputy minister, said that Nik Abduh is a dedicated and principled leader who is always willing to stand up for what he believes in.
"Just like his father, the late Tuan Guru Nik Aziz, Nik Abduh is very steadfast in defending the Pas' struggle," he told Sinar Daily.
Ahmad Amzad also said that Pas is very lenient on its members' decisions, and that Nik Abduh is free to make his own choices.
"Pas has always been open to everyone's decisions.
"For example, when Pas had to decide whether to go for Perikatan Nasional or Umno, as desired by Umno President, Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Pas President, Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang, who chaired the Central Pas Committee meeting, which I also attended as a member of the Committee, did not put any pressure on the Committee to agree to certain decisions," he said.
Ahmad Amzad said that it took four hours to come to a consensus where everyone was given a chance to speak, concluding its open attitude to views and criticisms.
He also stated that Pas realises that each member is just an ordinary person with weaknesses who should be ready to be corrected if there are any mistakes.
He further commented on Nik Abduh that he has what it takes to compete and lead, which is the reason why Abdul Hadi continued to nominate him to be appointed to the Central Pas Committee.
"He is a very capable leader. He is also very popular among the people of Kelantan," he added.
On Tuesday, Nik Abduh has chosen to break his political 'fast', just a week after he decided to take a break from politics.
Nik Abduh began his political 'fast' following his failure to be nominated as a candidate in the state elections.
He said it was hard for him to 'fast' in politics.
Nik Abduh was initially touted as a potential Pas candidate for a seat in Kelantan. However, the slot ended going up to another candidate.
On a separate matter, Ahmad Amzad also highlighted that Pas's supporters no longer come from the rural community and most of them are religious.
"We can see from Pas Supporters Congress (DHPP) that all groups, including non-Muslims, consist of many artists, sportsmen, intellectuals, and entrepreneurs who are now openly supporting and promoting Pas," he said.