PAS deputy president Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man said Putrajaya had a responsibility to defend Naik’s dignity as he held permanent resident status in Malaysia.
“The prime minister’s firm statement to defend him (Naik) is an appropriate step in line with the Islamic principle to protect followers from becoming victims of persecution and tyranny,” he said, in a statement congratulating Mahathir for his “firm statement”.
Yesterday, Mahathir said the government would not deport Naik as long as he did not create any problems.
“We will not deport him as he has been granted permanent residency status,” he said.
On Thursday, the Indian foreign ministry reportedly confirmed making an official request to Malaysia to extradite Naik.
Naik is accused of giving provocative speeches, which were cited as a reason by Bangladesh for an attack in Dhaka in 2016 which left 22 people dead.
India’s National Investigation Agency is also investigating Naik’s Islamic Research Foundation over allegations of money laundering.
A source told FMT that Naik would meet Mahathir today, the first formal meeting since the former leader’s return to head the government after the May 9 polls.
Zakir Naik to meet Dr M, promises to expose ‘media falsehood’