PAS Politician Sparks Outrage Over Chinese Lieutenant General’s Promotion
Datuk Johnny Lim Makes History, But Not Everyone Is Happy
Recently, Datuk Johnny Lim Eng Seng made headlines as the first Malaysian Chinese to be promoted to the rank of Lieutenant General in the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) — a proud moment that should have symbolised progress and inclusivity.
However, the moment was tainted by a controversial post from PAS preacher and former Subang PAS chief, Zaharudin Muhammad, who implied that such a promotion may eventually pave the way for a non-Malay Prime Minister in Malaysia.
Mock Article Predicts First Chinese PM by 2058
In a now-deleted Facebook post, Zaharudin mocked up a future news article dated February 1, 2058, titled “First Chinese Prime Minister of Malaysia.”
The fictional article stated:
“History was made when Malaysia’s first Chinese Prime Minister, who was born in Kampung Sungai Baru, was appointed as the 50th Prime Minister. His parents had migrated under the Malaysia My Second Home scheme after buying a condo 23 years ago.”
Zaharudin added that this scenario could become a reality in 30 to 40 years, subtly warning that Datuk Johnny Lim’s promotion was the beginning of a slippery slope. While he claimed the example was “for illustration purposes only,” he included a real screenshot of Lim’s promotion article alongside it.
Although the Facebook post has been removed, a similar version reportedly remains on Zaharudin’s Instagram.
Outrage from Bangi MP and Public Figures
Syahredzan Johan, Member of Parliament for Bangi, reposted the screenshot and condemned Zaharudin for turning a moment of national pride into divisive rhetoric.
“What is the motive here? Isn’t Datuk Johnny Lim also a Malaysian? His promotion should be celebrated as a symbol of unity, not suspicion,” he wrote.
Syahredzan added that turning such achievements into racial fear-mongering does nothing but divide Malaysians, and called on political figures and the public to denounce such sentiments.
“This kind of polemic has no place in the Malaysia we love.”
Wider Implications and Concerns About Unity
Zaharudin’s comments have raised concerns about racism within political discourse and the danger of using national achievements as political ammunition. Critics argue that Datuk Johnny Lim’s rise should be a unifying symbol, not a racialised talking point.
Some commenters also questioned whether Zaharudin still held any official position in PAS, and urged the party to clarify or distance itself from the remarks.
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Source: Facebook
By Tarziman — 26/06/2025, 02:32 PM
