Kelantan wants to emulate Singapore's success in cleanliness, fighting graft
KOTA BAHRU: Malaysia's opposition Islamic state of Kelantan wants to emulate Singapore's success in fighting graft and keeping the city clean.
Chief minister of the opposition-held state, Nik Aziz Nik Mat, said this when he met Singapore Minister Mentor, Lee Kuan Yew, who is currently on an eight-day visit to Malaysia.
It is the first time both leaders have met in their political careers spanning half a century.
Tok Guru, as the 78-year-old spiritual head of the Pan Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS) is affectionately known, met Mr Lee for slightly over an hour.
Both leaders discussed various issues - from strengthening ties to the importance of the English language in global affairs, where Singapore shared its experience in implementing the English language policy.
Mr Nik Aziz in turn explained PAS' Islamic policies.
He said: "We are all human beings, regardless Chinese or Malays. I apply Islamic principles to govern Kelantan and in international relations. I respect those who are good, even though they are Chinese, and despise those who are bad, even though they are Malays."
Mr Nik Aziz's moderate way of life has won the respect of many, including Singapore Finance Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam.
Mr Tharman said: "Tok Guru has a reputation that extends beyond Kelantan, a man of belief who practises his beliefs in a way that inspires many people. (He is) someone whom we politicians can learn from."
The delegation was later treated to a traditional nasi dagang lunch as a local troupe performed Dikir Barat.
Mr Lee and the Singapore delegation were then taken on a city tour of Kota Baru before heading to their final stop, Kuantan.
- CNA/yt
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