KUALA LUMPUR – Caretaker Kelantan deputy menteri besar Datuk Mohd Amar Nik Abdullah has likened water issues in the state to a bed-ridden stroke patient, as time and patience are needed to address both situations.
Presenting the analogy at the Perikatan Nasional (PN) grand finale ceramah event in Machang last night, Amar implied that it would be impossible to expect zero water issues in the state, which has been governed by PAS for 33 years.
“I admit that certain parts of Kelantan do have water problems, but we (PAS) have tried our best, and God-willing, bit by bit, there have been changes.
“It’s like a stroke patient (who has been) incapacitated for a month with a wire (surgical tube) in his mouth. If he were to wake up, he would be unable to immediately start running.
“Has there ever been a bed-ridden patient who suddenly wakes up and immediately goes to play football? It’s fortunate enough if he can even blink, sit up, and recognise people. Give it some time.”
Amar, who is attempting to defend his Panchor state seat in tomorrow’s state polls, reiterated his criticism against PAS detractors, whom he said have been “unfairly targeting” the state by claiming that water troubles plague the entire state.
“If they want to claim that water issues haven’t been settled in 33 years, (are they trying to say) that people in Machang haven’t showered for 33 years.
“It’s not as if the whole of Kelantan does not have clean water (supply) at all and is unable to shower. They are making up stories as if we have no water. If that’s the case, how come we have restaurants, hospitals, and KFC? All of these places need water.
“Machang doesn’t need much development, (but) Kelantan is different now (compared to when PAS first took over).”
Besides that, Amar also told the audience that if it wishes to abandon its support for PAS, it should do so for a valid reason that does not hinge on “attacks” from rival coalitions.
“PAS upholds Islamic principles in its policies, and we as Muslims believe that there are no better principles than those found in Islam. We are confident that Islam is the one truth, which is why PAS stands by Islamic principles.
“(Muslims) have no choice but to fight for Islam (by) voting for PAS. However, just like how men have the right to divorce their wives according to Islamic rules, there should be a good reason given (prior to the divorce),” he said. – August 11, 2023