The Kelantan government is prepared to accept the compassionate fund (wang ihsan) from the federal government so long as it is given directly to the state and not through the Federal Development Department (JPP), Menteri Besar Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat said today.

He said this was because the PAS-led government had its own officers who were capable enough to manage the money without the help of the JPP.

"We are willing to accept the compassionate money offered by the federal government, even if it's not referred to as royalty, on condition that the money is given directly to the state government and not through the JPP," he said after visiting Kolej Yayayan Islam Kelantan in Kok Lanas, near Kota Bharu.

Nik Aziz, who is also PAS spiritual leader, was commenting on the statement by Kelantan Umno liaison committee chairman Mustapa Mohamed who asked the state government to set aside political sentiments in the oil royalty issue in the interests of the people.

Yesterday, the minister of international trade and industry was reported as saying that the Kelantan government should cease its political confrontation in the issue.

- Bernama