KUALA LUMPUR, May 28 — The role of Dewan Himpunan Pendukung PAS (DHPP) within Parti Islam Se-Malaysia has come under renewed discussion following recent commentary by political analyst P. Ramasamy on opposition dynamics in Malaysia.
In rebutting the statement made by Ramasamy, DHPP Information Chief Dr Balachandran Gopal Krishnan said portraying Dewan Himpunan Pendukung PAS (DHPP) as “feeble” or “meek” misunderstands both the role and strength of DHPP within PAS itself.
“DHPP does not operate as an isolated political pressure group. Behind DHPP stands the full machinery, structure and leadership of PAS – one of the most organised and grassroots-driven political parties in Malaysia today.” he explained.
Secondly, DHPP was never created as a race-based political platform. Unlike many parties that continue to approach politics through narrow ethnic bargaining, DHPP represents a broader and more inclusive political engagement involving Malaysians from various religious and cultural backgrounds who believe in integrity, stability, social harmony and responsible governance, he pointed out.
“The old political model where every race must be represented only by leaders from the same race is increasingly losing relevance, especially among younger Malaysians.
“Leadership should not be judged merely by ethnicity, but by sincerity, competency and willingness to serve all communities fairly.” said Dr Balachandran.
In reality, many existing Indian political leaders today no longer possess the bargaining power they once claimed to have.
“This is a political reality many ordinary Indians themselves openly acknowledge. Merely having an Indian face in leadership does not automatically translate into meaningful empowerment for the Indian community.
“Within PAS, issues involving non-Muslims, Indians, Chinese, Siamese, Kadazan or any other community are not viewed as “their problems” alone.
“PAS leaders themselves regularly raise issues affecting all Malaysians because governance must transcend race-based silos if the country genuinely wishes to move forward.” he added.
“Malaysia today is entering a new political phase. The rakyat are increasingly tired of endless factionalism, personality politics, nepotism accusations and race-centred political narratives. What Malaysians need moving forward is a more mature, stable and inclusive political culture built on values, accountability and mutual respect.
“Political maturity is not about who shouts the loudest about race representation. It is about building trust across communities and ensuring every Malaysian feels heard, respected and protected within the national framework.”
That is the direction DHPP believes Malaysia must move towards, he asserts.
–PRESSKL
