The PAS-led Kelantan government's plan to proclaim Kota Baru as an Islamic city next March will not involve any policy changes, said state executive councillor Takiyuddin Hassan today.

He said despite the plan to turn the state capital into a model of Islamic management, it stresses on three aspects - cleanliness, peace and welfare - which are accepted by all races.

"The proclamation of Islamic city next year is an affirmation to our current policy, there won't be changes," said the PAS leader who oversees state public administration, local government and housing affairs when contacted.

Takiyuddin said the non-Muslim community need not be afraid and more details of the proclamation will be made available to the public.

According to the voters population in the last general election, the Kota Baru constituency consist of 79.1 percent Malays, 19.1 percent Chinese, 1.3 percent Indians and others.

On Wednesday, the state government announced that a steering committee has been formed to prepare a concept for an 'Islamic city' which will be introduced by the Kota Baru Municipal Council next March.

Trustworthy, caring leaders

Under the concept, an Islamic city's leaders and administrators should be trustworthy, possess good knowledge of Islam and be sensitive to the people's welfare.

It also aims to promote the e-government concept and allow space for the public to criticise and advise the administrators.

Several large banners that read, 'Kota Baru Bandaraya Islam 2005' (Kota Baru Islamic City 2005) have been strung up around the city.

Elaborating, Takuyuddin said the PAS state government established Islamic management of Kelantan after winning it in the 1990 general elections and several policies in accordance to this have been implemented.

These include a freeze on gambling licences, the requirement for Muslims to dress according to what is prescribed by the religion and non-Muslims to dress decently at the workplace.

He said the Islamic city concept is being introduced to 'upgrade' the city and this relates to the motto, 'Develop Together With Islam', mooted by Kelantan Menteri Besar and PAS spiritual leader Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat.

He added that the municipal council will also encourage new buildings in the town to reflect Islamic architecture, which will also serve as tourist attractions.

"Islamic architectural buildings are advisable, but not compulsory," he said.

According to him, Deputy Tourism Minister and Umno Supreme Council member Ahmad Zahid Hamidi was also "keen" of the concept as it may boost the tourism industry.

'Share your views'

Another state executive councillor Husam Musa said non-Muslims are welcomed to contribute their opinions to ensure that the plan will be successful.

He also stressed that the fundamental rights of all ethnic groups will be protected.

"The plan should be inclusive and next year is only the beginning, so we hope they come forward to tell us their views," he said.

Commenting on the issue, Kelantan Umno deputy liaison chief and Kota Baru MP Zaid Ibrahim said the plan would be good if it is not merely a PAS political gimmick.

"If it can enhance the city's facilities and ensure people's security, then it is a good plan," he added when contacted.

On Wednesday, The Kelantan Chinese Assembly Hall expressed concern that the concept would affect the non-Muslims in the state.