DPM: Use politics to strengthen religion

PETALING JAYA: Do not use religion for politics, but use politics to strengthen religion, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said.

At the haj pilgrims send-off at Tabung Haji here yesterday, Zahid said while it was normal to have different opinions, it was important not to use religion for political gain.

“We can have different opinions, but it should be celebrated with adab (manners). You can have different political stands, but don’t use religion for politics. Use politics to strengthen religion.”

He said the public should not politicise the haj subsidy by Tabung Haji and the government.

“If some states give RM500 in subsidy, alhamdulillah (praise be to God).

“Thank you. But don’t be proud of giving only RM500 when the Federal Government gives a subsidy of RM9,570,” Zahid said without naming any states.

Last month, the Selangor government presented RM500 to Selangor haj muasassah, who are the people tasked to improve haj operations.

Zahid said Malaysian pilgrims enjoyed some of the cheapest haj package rates, costing only RM9,980 per person, while in some neighbouring countries the cost was at least RM15,000 per person.

“This year, Tabung Haji has allocated a subsidy of more than RM260 million for pilgrims. Our haj packages are among the cheapest.”

Zahid, who is also home minister, advised ministers who would be performing the haj to refrain from politicking during the pilgrimage.

“We are carrying out an ibadah (religious obligation). Use the short time during wukuf at Arafah to perform sunat prayers and other religious activities.

“Don’t indulge in politics, fish for votes or campaign.”

He said as Allah’s guests, pilgrims must have good ethics and manners while at the Holy Land, and use that time to become closer to God.

A total of 483 pilgrims left for Mecca at 5pm yesterday.