Part 12/22:
This trend has deepened racial and religious polarizations, with some Mahathir-era populists and Malay chauvinists perceiving PAS as a protector of Malay and Muslim interests. Supporters like Zul Amali view PAS as a bastion of conservative Islam that champions Malay identity amidst societal liberalization. Support for political Islam has become intertwined with fears about losing cultural and religious dominance, leading to voter realignments that challenge secular and multiracial politics.