Constructing an Islamic Model in Two Malaysian States: PAS Rule in Kelantan and Terengganu

This paper deals with the various meanings attached to the models of Islamic governance in contemporary Malaysia, particularly with the ones introduced by Parti Islam SeMalaysia (PAS). Rather than highlighting the clash between Islamic fundamentalism and the state, it tries to show how Islamic discourses of modernity and traditionalism have been interwoven by acquiring new and often ambiguous meanings in a multitude of ways: From its nationalist roots PAS has turned to the shia-style Islamic state to advocate Islamic democracy and civil society after the sacking of Anwar Ibrahim in 1998, and the ensuing calls for more political transparency and reliability. Since the events of "September 11", PAS has been forced back to its Islamist basics to secure the core support of conservative Malay voters in the east coast states of Kelantan and Terengganu.