PKR denies using khalwat arrests to entrap political opponents

PKR Vice President Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari has denied allegations that the People's Justice Party (PKR) uses religious morality issues, specifically khalwat (close proximity) arrests, as a political strategy to entrap or weaken opponents. Speaking at a Yayasan Selangor event, Amirudin stated that the party has “much more important work” to do and has never discussed or arranged such traps, whether secretly or openly.

The denial follows reports of a former minister and political leader being detained by the Selangor Islamic Religious Department (JAIS) in Petaling Jaya for suspected khalwat. Former Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability, Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, confirmed he was one of the individuals detained on October 15.

Separately, Amirudin, acting as the Election Director for Pakatan Harapan (PH), noted that the coalition is finalizing its direction and preparations for the upcoming Melaka state election. He expects to establish a clearer direction and finalize candidate screening within a week, emphasizing that PH seeks candidates with strong community service records and relevant experience.