TEMERLOH — PAS delegates have agreed to amend the party’s constitution to allow non-Muslims to become associate members, unless they are atheists.
The motion on the amendment which was tabled at the party’s 70th annual assembly or muktamar yesterday was unanimously approved by delegates, The Star reports.
PAS secretary-general Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan, who tabled the motion, said non-Muslims can become associate members on one condition — that they follow another religion.
With this amendment, there are now two types of party membership, the other being regular membership which is only for Muslims.
“This means atheists cannot become associate members of PAS,” Takiyuddin was reported saying.
PAS’ mursyidul am (spiritual leader) Datuk Hashim Jasin said previously that non-Muslims have been asking to join the party.
PAS has been catering to non-Muslims through its Non-Muslim Supporters Congress (DHPP), which will now be elevated to become a party wing following the amendment to accept non-Muslim associate members.
Takiyuddin said the DHPP wing will be allowed to vote and be elected for positions within the wing.
Another amendment approved by delegates today was an amendment to the party constitution to penalise party-hoppers.
MPs and assemblyman who switch support to other political parties or alliances that PAS does not support, will lose their party membership.
They will also cease to be PAS members if they disobey party orders, thereby losing their seats and paving the way for by-elections to be held. — September 15, 2024