'Let’s wait for Hadi Awang to speak', says Syahir amid speculation

BACHOK - Amid growing speculation about his future, Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang has yet to confirm whether he intends to step down as Pas president, with party leaders urging patience as internal discussions continue.

Speaking to reporters on Friday, Bachok MP and former political secretary to Abdul Hadi, Mohd Syahir Che Sulaiman said the decision ultimately rests with the veteran leader himself.

"Whether he steps down or not, we have to wait for Tuan Guru himself to speak and confirm the news. I can only confirm that the ‘retreat’ took place in Kuala Terengganu," he said.

He clarified that the retreat, held last weekend, was intended to discuss the party’s future direction.

On leadership matters, he stressed that the decision lies with the delegates of the upcoming general assembly.

Abdul Hadi is said to have hinted at stepping down from his position as Pas president due to health reasons.

"It has been our tradition and culture in this party that elections at the branch, division, wing and central levels all proceed calmly. So, we hope the election process at this general assembly will also take place peacefully.

"Tuan Guru feels his health is good, but doctors have advised him to reduce outdoor activities and avoid crowded places, that is all," Syahir said.

Despite concerns about Abdul Hadi's health, Syahir reassured that the former's routine involving lectures, meetings and management continued as normal, with many praying for his continued well-being.

"InsyAllah, the election will take place in a calm and undisturbed atmosphere. Beyond that, it is better for the person himself to speak.

"During the Marang parliamentary contest, for example, Tuan Guru had no intention of running, but the party decided he should. It’s the same situation now; the decision lies with the delegates," Syahir added.

He also said the party still needed Abdul Hadi’s leadership during these testing times.

Earlier, Sinar reported that Abdul Hadi had hinted at a possible resignation due to health reasons, during a retreat at Hotel Primula in Terengganu.

According to sources, this revelation prompted internal discussions among the party’s religious scholars (ulama), who were now working to convince deputy president Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man to prepare to step up as the leader.