PKR president Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim took to task Pas president Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang over his statement that the government’s asset declaration initiative is a communist and socialist idea.
Anwar responded by saying that asset declaration should indeed be rejected if it only serves to flaunt one’s affluence.
“But the asset declaration (initiative) is to ensure that property (and money) acquired is halal.
“Whether (one) is from Umno, PKR, DAP or Pas, if one refuses to make an asset declaration, then the public will start to question (one). What is there to be scared of?”
SEREMBAN: PKR president Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim took to task Pas president Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang over his statement that the government’s asset declaration initiative is a communist and socialist idea.
Hadi had said that the concept was inspired by “communist and socialist” philosophies, a system he claimed is practiced by the DAP.
He had also earlier stated that the practice of asset declaration runs counter to Islam, which frowns upon showing off one’s wealth.
Anwar responded by saying that asset declaration should indeed be rejected if it only serves to flaunt one’s affluence.
“But the asset declaration (initiative) is to ensure that property (and money) acquired is halal.
“Whether (one) is from Umno, PKR, DAP or Pas, if one refuses to make an asset declaration, then the public will start to question (one). What is there to be scared of?”
“We should learn from past Islamic leaders. One of the Islamic caliphs (leaders), Umar Abdul Aziz, was known for taking inventory of his properties… as soon as he was elected leader,” he said.
The Port Dickson MP said this at a press conference after a hi-tea and discussion session with PKR Negri Sembilan and Melaka leaders at the Menteri Besar’s official residence here, on Friday.
He added that the decision for government administration staff and members of Parliament to declare their assets, as announced by Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, should be seen positively.
“They (Pas leaders) are making noise about anti-corruption and transparency, but they oppose the idea (of anti-corruption initiatives) by (linking them to) communist theory…,” he said.
Meanwhile, when asked about a movement started by a non-governmental organisation (NGO) to bring down PKR deputy president Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali, Anwar said that they have a right to voice their views.
“However, in this case, we will leave it to the police to investigate.
“No doubt, this issue has tainted the good name of the party, but we know him (Azmin) as a strong party leader.
“It’s not right to punish him without clear evidence and results from the police investigation,” he said.
Anwar added that he is satisfied with the commitment and loyalty shown by PKR’s members amidst the controversy.
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