KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 5 — PAS president Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang will likely defend his Marang parliamentary seat in the coming election, Sinar Harian reported today. 

The Malay-language daily said this was based on Abdul Hadi’s own admission that it would be easier for him to carry out his duties as party president if he remained in Parliament. 

Abdul Hadi (picture), who is also Rhu Rendang state assemblyman, had earlier stated his wish to contest in only one seat after his offer to retire from active politics was rejected by the PAS central committee. 

“If possible, just one seat. That’s what I ask. It’s up to the party to decide if it’ll be a parliamentary or state constituency but I’ll be able to operate more freely at the federal level if I’m in Parliament,” he told the paper. 

Party sources confirmed to The Malaysian Insider that Abdul Hadi will most likely be asked to defend Marang. 

Abdul Hadi recently indicated his desire to back out of running in the next general election, saying it was time for the next generation of leaders to shape the party. 

He had said he wanted to step down as he has been an elected representative for over 30 years. 

However, his offer was rejected by the Islamist party’s central committee in a unanimous decision on Wednesday. 

Abdul Hadi added today that he would be ready to work for both the party and the people following the decision. 

“I will heed the pleas from the grassroots urging me to continue serving the people,” he said. 

Abdul Hadi also disclosed that he has received a list of PAS candidates for all states and admitted his name was included.