Perak mufti Harussani Zakaria, who is also a member of the National Fatwa Council, said he is ready to raise the issue of whether PAS has misused the word 'Islam' in its name.

NONE "The party has deviated further from its original objective to uphold Islam, planned more than six decades ago," he told Malay daily Berita Harian yesterday.

According to Harussani (left) , PAS has exploited Islam for its political interests and to grab power, influence and status, as well as to win seats in elections.

He was responding to Malay rights group Perkasa chief Ibrahim Ali, who had urged the council to hold a discussion on the suitability of PAS using the word 'Islam' in the party’s name.

Ibrahim had said it is time for the council to do so, as the use of the word could confuse Muslims, particularly the fanatical supporters of the party.

In 2001, the Council of Malay Rulers had given the green light for associations and political parties to use the word ‘Islam’ in their names.

However, individuals and associations are prohibited from abusing the word or using it to confuse people because this is against Islamic teachings.