PAS is banking on the Taliban to improve its Islamic image, Bukit Aman’s counter-terrorism chief, Normah Ishak said.
Speaking in a webinar titled “Next Generation Afghan Alumni? Assessment from SEA”, Normah said PAS did so when praising the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan after the US troops withdrew from the country in August last year.
She cited PAS International Affairs and External Relations committee chairman Muhammad Khalil Abdul Hadi’s congratulatory message on Aug 18.
Khalil, who is PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang’s son, in a tweet said the Taliban had “liberated” Afghanistan after it had been colonised and invaded. The tweet was subsequently deleted.
“They are creating narratives to the party’s advantage, forming opinions and perceptions among Muslims in Malaysia, so the Muslims in Malaysia (think) ‘Taliban is okay now. They will be fine without armed support’.
“The recognition by an Islamic party for the Taliban’s struggle augurs well with fans of terrorism in Malaysia.” – FMT