In the Straits Times,

PAS push for non-Muslim membership KUALA LUMPUR - Some Parti Islam SeMalaysia officials believe PAS should throw caution to the wind and admit non-Muslims. Otherwise, it will be difficult to expand the party's political influence and rebut claims that it is chauvinistic, they say.At the Federal Territory PAS convention on Sunday, they passed a resolution to let non-Muslims become members.

Is PAS getting that desperate? And how will allowing non-Muslims in the party rebut claims of chauvinism in the party?

PAS is fundamentally an Islamic party. Its fight politically is motivated by religious issues. Thus this latest move of allowing non Muslims to join the party, contradicts the very core of its beliefs. It makes a mockery of their constitution.

PAS lost heavily in the latest general election. The heavy defeat was unexpected. They are still finding it difficult to accept such heavy defeats, prefering instead to blame the Election Commission of election fraud. The voices of the people sent a clear message to PAS. Its policies are no longer acceptable. It is archaic and at times foolish.

So this latest move reflects a sense of desperation. The support of the party has eroded with its main support coming from Kelantan, which is also weakening. They are bleeding badly and they need to stop it fast. But are non Muslims going to be the answer?