Opposition Islamic party PAS said today it is prepared to change its rules to allow non-Muslims to join the party, as it seeks to revive its flagging fortunes.

Party president Abdul Hadi Awang said he did not think the move would clash with the party's policies, including a campaign for multicultural Malaysia to be declared an Islamic state.

Non-Muslims in the party would have to accept and support its policies, he said according to the official Bernama news agency.

"For example, in the context of a country with an Islamic administration, non-Muslim citizens supporting the Islamic administration can be appointed to serve as ministers," he said.

PAS was trounced in 2004 elections, retaining only Kelantan in the Muslim heartland, in a defeat seen as a vote against the party's fundamentalist approach to Islam.

Since then it has been trying to revamp its image and capture support among the country's ethnic Chinese and Indian communities.

Single mothers 'gatal'

In Kelantan, it has lifted a 15-year ban on the popular games of snooker and billiards and allowed cinemas to operate - although with the lights on to prevent any unseemly behaviour.

However, its politicians continue to stir controversy, including in April when a PAS lawmaker caused a furore in the nation's parliament by referring to single mothers as "horny" ( gatal ).

Abdul Hadi said the decision to widen its membership was prompted by the support it has received from non-Muslims, but that the possible amendment was still under discussion and unlikely to happen immediately.

"PAS has been getting the support of non-Muslims. Therefore, there is room to enable them to become party members. That is why, if necessary, we are prepared to amend the party regulation," he said.