The Malaysian Islamic Party (Parti Islam SeMalaysia – PAS) already controls four of Malaysia\u2019s 13 states, and since the 2022 elections, holds 43 of the 222 seats in the federal parliament, the most of any individual party.<\/p>\n
PAS\u2019 ultimate goal is to replace Malaysia\u2019s democratic system with Shariah law.<\/p>\n
Anything that can harm society, we must together support its destruction,\u201d said Andansura Rabu, PAS\u2019 deputy commissioner for Pahang, at the party\u2019s annual gathering over the weekend, as reported by The Straits Times<\/em>. \u201cThis isn\u2019t a matter of religion, it\u2019s a social issue.\u201d<\/p><\/blockquote>\n\u201cGambling is harmful, so we have to close it,\u201d he added. \u201cBut it must be in accordance with the laws and Constitution.<\/p>\n
Complex System<\/strong><\/h2>\nMalaysia is an ethnically diverse country with a complex political system consisting of a federal constitutional elective monarchy comprising 13 states and three federal territories.<\/p>\n
PAS\u2019 electoral base is centered around the conservative northeastern and northwestern rural and coastal areas of Peninsula Malaysia, which is the lower half of the country\u2019s western peninsula. Peninsula Malaysia contains 11 of the 13 states and includes the federal capital, Kuala Lumpur.<\/p>\n
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Pahang is at the center of Peninsula Malaysia. It has a large Muslim majority of around 75%, but it grants residents freedom to follow other religions. Pahang\u2019s Muslim residents are subject to Shariah law in matters of family law and religious observances.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
Genting Highlands, a hilltop location on the peak of Mount Ulu Kali in the Titiwangsa Mountains, is situated at the southwest tip of Pahang. It was chosen as a resort destination for its proximity to Kuala Lumpur, which is an hour\u2019s drive away.<\/p>\n
However, even if PAS were to win control of Pahang in the next general election, which must be held before 2028, it wouldn’t necessarily be able to shutter the casino at Resorts World. That\u2019s because casino and gaming permits are decided upon by the federal government.<\/p>\n