There is “nothing positive” about PAS defending a campaign urging Muslims to prioritise the purchase Muslim-made products, DAP lawmaker Ramkarpal Singh has said.

The Bukit Gelugor MP said as a lawyer, PAS secretary-general Takiyuddin Hassan should know the “serious social ramifications” of such a campaign for the country’s multicultural values.

He was referring to Takiyuddin, who today argued that the campaign, which began on social media, was “inclusive and competitive”.

“I cannot see anything positive in such a move as urged by Takiyuddin.

“Of all people, Takiyuddin, being legally trained, ought to understand the serious social ramifications of such a campaign which can lead to racial polarisation and a divide amongst races in this country,” Ramkarpal said in a statement today.

He said encouraging such a move goes against the spirit of the Federal Constitution which includes one’s right to livelihood.

Ramkarpal, who is also DAP legal bureau chairperson, added that Malaysia has long enjoyed the benefits of importing and exporting goods from and to non-Muslim countries.

He cited the export of Malaysia’s palm oil to India as an example.

PAS should instead encourage Muslim businesses to compete with other Muslim and non-Muslim businesses, he said.

This would equip Muslim businesses with the necessary skills to compete locally and internationally, and create more job opportunities.

He added: “Takiyuddin may claim to have been referring to local industries, but the same logic applies - restricting businesses according to race will have a negative impact on such businesses, as this would result in a lack of competitiveness as they cater only for a restricted market.”