Pas Pahang vows to close harmful industries, including gambling if elected
The Beserah assemblyman clarified that this approach follows the footsteps of Pas-led governments in Kelantan, Terengganu, and Kedah.
TEMERLOH - Pas Pahang has pledged to shut down industries deemed harmful to the community, including gambling, if they gain control of the state.
However, the implementation of this policy will depend on legal provisions and the jurisdiction of the state government.
According to state Pas deputy commissioner Datuk Andansura Rabu, while Pas has the authority to regulate certain industries at the state level, some may require Federal involvement.
"We need to refer to the legal framework. If we hold the power at the state level and if it is within our authority, we will act accordingly.
"For example, the casino in Genting Highlands might not fall entirely under our jurisdiction; it may require Federal involvement, which means we might not be able to do anything about it.
"But if there are any areas within our jurisdiction that we see as harmful to the public, we will take action based on the law," he said during a press conference at the 70th Pas Annual Muktamar at the Al-Makmur Complex here on Sunday.
The Beserah assemblyman clarified that this approach follows the footsteps of Pas-led governments in Kelantan, Terengganu, and Kedah.
He stressed that anything detrimental to society should not only be opposed but also eradicated.
Andansura stressed that opposition to gambling is not limited to Islam but is also shared by other religions, such as Buddhism.
"This is not about religion; it's about protecting the welfare of the community.
"This is a power granted by the Federal Constitution. If you don’t want the gambling industry, choose Pas," he added.
In a related matter, Pahang Pas Commissioner Datuk Rosli Jabar stated that the initiative to close harmful industries aligns with the theme of this year's Pas Muktamar, "Islam is the Solution."
He further described that Pas acknowledged the difference between state and federal powers, and sometimes there is an overlap.
"However, under the Islamic concept, we will do whatever is within the state’s capacity.
"In the case of gambling, state power might only extend to the premises," he said.
