Highlighting a growing dispute in Malaysia’s political opposition, the fundamentalist Parti Islam SeMalaysia has been urged by its allies to drop plans for setting up an Islamic state and imposing strict criminal laws if it comes to power. Politicians warned that the impasse could jeopardise the alliance of three opposition parties – the main challenge to Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad’s ruling coalition in the general election expected by early next year. PAS, the linchpin of the alliance, recently issued documents reiterating core policies of setting up an Islamic state in this mostly Muslim country and introducing laws that include amputation for thieves and death by stoning for adulterers. Dr Syed Husin Ali, president of the opposition Parti Rakyat Malaysia, which includes Muslims and members from other religions, said the Islamic party should not be ‘set on bulldozing its controversial policies’ without the consent of its partners. He said the plans could threaten the nation’s practice of religious tolerance. Full Story
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