KOTA BARU: PAS is determined to hold on to Kelantan despite Barisan Nasional’s efforts to woo voters away from it, said party president Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang (pic).

He said that apart from its old enemy, PAS is prepared to face new challenger Pakatan Harapan, which is banking on split votes to gain a foothold in the state.

He said PAS had retained Kelantan for more than two decades despite the restrictive policies of the Government and would continue to do so in the next general election.

PAS would use its “Kelantan success story” to expand its influence and ultimately capture Putrajaya, he added.

Hadi said PAS has the capability to govern multi-racial Malaysia under the existing social contract.

He also said the Syura Council would screen potential candidates and disqualify those who had committed major sins or had a habit of indulging in minor vices.

On DAP’s plan to make inroads into Kelantan, state PAS Sup­porters wing chairman Lim Guan Seng said that was just wishful thinking.

“The only three seats in Kelan­tan where non-Malays make up a significant percentage of electorates are Kota Lama in Kota Baru, Galas in Gua Musang and Guchil in Kuala Krai.

“Kota Lama is a PAS stronghold and Galas is an Umno stronghold, while PKR’s victory in Guchil was achieved through PAS’ support,” he said.

He pointed out that PAS had also impressed the Chinese community by building the RM600,000 Cheng Ho arch, which features Chinese architecture, in Jalan Kebun Sultan.

“The fact that many from the Chinese community participated in the opening of the arch last week shows that they are supportive of the state government.

“The community usually shows its displeasure by boycotting events,” Lim added.