Criticisms against PAS parade smack of Islamophobia, says Hadi

Criticisms against PAS parade smack of Islamophobia, says Hadi

The Himpit parade took place last Friday in Setiu, Terengganu, at the start of the two-day PAS Youth gathering known as Himpunan Pemuda Islam Terengganu (Himpit).

Terengganu PAS Youth were seen marching with replicas of swords, spears and shields for a gathering known as Himpunan Pemuda Islam Terengganu. (Facebook pic)
PETALING JAYA:
PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang has slammed those who condemned the use of replica weapons and costumes during the Himpunan Pemuda Islam Terengganu (Himpit) parade as Islamophobic.

He said these people had made Islam out to be a “scary religion”, Berita Harian reported.

“Why are they so afraid of Islam? They are Islamophobic, with all their accusations and slander.

“They are afraid of Muslims carrying wooden swords but it’s all right for the enemies of Islam to use nuclear weapons, which is forbidden in Islam. Muslims carrying wooden swords are not allowed,” he was quoted as saying at an event in Ampang.

Hadi said it was unfortunate that people have been influenced by this narrative.

The Himpit parade took place last Friday in Setiu, Terengganu, at the start of the two-day PAS Youth gathering.

Religious affairs minister Na’im Mokhtar said the warlike posturing could give a wrong impression of Islam. It also drew brickbats from Pakatan Harapan and MCA.

Terengganu PAS Youth had defended the parade, saying it was similar to cosplay events held annually, and emphasised that it was never intended to incite violence.

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