PETALING JAYA: PAS today defended the campaign in support of products produced by Muslims, saying Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng who yesterday urged the Islamist party to condemn the move had misunderstood it.
"For PAS, the campaign to buy Muslim-made products first is an inclusive and competitive move in business and should be seen in a positive light," PAS secretary-general Takiyuddin Hassan said in a statement.
"Studies show that the campaign will cause an economic spillover to larger sections of the community, especially small and medium enterprises and rural traders, giving them a competitive edge.
"PAS urges the government to help make this noble campaign a success."
Lim had urged both PAS and Umno to condemn calls for a boycott of products produced by non-Bumiputeras.
He said such a boycott was counter-productive and could jeopardise national unity, and voiced concern that consumers would lose out if products which are superior in price and quality are affected.
However, Takiyuddin said the campaign would create job opportunities for the youth, many of whom he claimed were unemployed.
"It will ultimately bring about a progressive economic cycle among Muslim business, and non-Muslim, too."
The campaign began on social media, with the Bumiputera community being urged to avoid buying products made by businesses owned by non-Bumiputeras.
Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad called for an end to the boycott campaign last Friday, saying it could only anger other quarters.
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