PAS symbol not divisive issue, Melaka coalition leader says

Tony Khoo, chairman of Melaka's Democratic Action Party (DAP)-led state coalition, has pushed back against analysts questioning the role of PAS in the state government, saying the party's symbolism should not be treated as a major concern.

Khoo contended that non-Muslim communities in Melaka have responded positively to joint initiatives undertaken with PAS leadership, suggesting that collaborative efforts between the parties have not sparked significant friction among diverse stakeholder groups.

The Melaka coalition leader's remarks come as the state continues efforts to build consensus among its multi-ethnic population on matters of governance and inter-party cooperation. PAS, an Islamist party, has become an increasingly significant political force in several Malaysian states following recent electoral developments.

Khoo's comments reflect attempts by the Melaka coalition to normalize working relationships with PAS while addressing skepticism from analysts who have questioned the implications of such partnerships for minority communities in the state.