Gerakan treasurer quits after 31 years amid ‘unease’ over Pas ties

Gerakan treasurer quits after 31 years amid ‘unease’ over Pas ties

GEORGE TOWN: Gerakan treasurer Hng Chee Wey’s resignation after 31 years could signal growing unease over the party’s ties with Pas within Perikatan Nasional (PN), sources say.

Hng, who has held several senior positions including state secretary and national treasurer, confirmed he had decided to leave the party after deliberating for nine months.

Sources familiar with the situation said Hng’s departure could signal deeper concerns within Gerakan, with one suggesting that “this may be just the beginning”.

The sources said there had been growing unhappiness on the ground over Gerakan’s association with Pas, with some members questioning whether the party had moved away from its ideology and principles by not taking a stronger stand against what they regarded as Pas’ “extreme” positions.

Gerakan’s position within PN has become increasingly challenging as Pas’ influence in the coalition has grown, while tensions between Pas and Bersatu have also complicated the alliance’s direction.

The party, however, reaffirmed its commitment to PN in June, saying it would continue playing a role in strengthening the coalition.

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Hng, when contacted, said he felt he could no longer contribute in his capacity.

“I can’t do anything for the people who voted for me,” he said.

Hng stressed that he had no issues with anyone in the party and planned to take a break from politics before deciding on his next step.

“I have no issues with people in the party,” he said.

Gerakan deputy president and Penang Gerakan chairman Oh Tong Keong confirmed Hng’s resignation, saying the party was surprised by the decision.

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“Of course we are surprised and will talk it out with Hng.

“As far as I am concerned, there are no issues in the party,” he said.

Hng’s departure marks a significant development given his three decades in Gerakan and tenure in several key leadership positions.

The resignation also comes as Gerakan seeks to maintain its political relevance within PN while navigating concerns over its ability to appeal to non-Malay voters amid Pas’ growing influence.

Hng, who served as national treasurer from 2018, has also contested state and parliamentary seats for Gerakan.

For now, Hng said he would take a break from politics, leaving his next chapter unwritten.