Nazir Razak linked to Gerakan Harapan Baru

CIMB group chairman Datuk Seri Nazir Razak may link his non-governmental organization (NGO) with the newly launched Gerakan Harapan Baru (New Hope Movement), or GHB, according to The Straits Times.

GHB is a movement which groups PAS members defeated during the party polls last month while the NGO with former Umno Supreme Council member, Datuk Saifuddin Abdullah as its face, is set up to promote moderation.

It is understood that Saifuddin had recently held talks with GHB, which groups progressive PAS leaders.

However The Straits Times also quoted a source saying that a merger with GHB faces a substantial stumbling block as the PAS rebels want an Islamic party, while those committed to Nazir’s plans are for a secular and multiracial party.

"The GHB says it will open its party to non-Muslims and give them equal rights, but those involved in the Nazir platform are clear about not using Islam as the label," the source said.

On the link up with the NGO, Parit Buntar MP Mujahid Yusof Rawa, a key figure of GHB said the matter will be discussed with the group before any decision is made.

Saifuddin said both individuals have agreed to cooperate with each other.

“We broadly agreed to continue cooperation in the future. If, for example, one of us starts an NGO and the other a new party, we will work closely and consult each other,” said Saifuddin.

Nazir who is also the brother to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak has recently grown more vocal on national and political matters this year especially on issues involving the PM