PKR Pahang will seek a full explanation over allegations that recipients of food aid in Cenderawasih were registered as party members without their knowledge or consent.
Its secretary, Zukri Aksah, said the party was taking the matter seriously following remarks by Semambu assemblyman Chan Chun Kuang and media reports concerning the allegation.
He stressed that every party membership application must be made voluntarily, with the applicant’s clear knowledge and consent.
“Regarding the incident in Cenderawasih, PKR Pahang will obtain a full explanation from the organisers by reviewing the procedures used, including how information was provided to recipients, the handling of personal data, registration through the ADIL application and eKYC verification.
“If there was any confusion or non-compliance with the prescribed procedures, appropriate corrective action will be taken,” he said in a statement on Friday.
The issue surfaced after an alleged recipient of a food aid box from Kampung Cenderawasih claimed she had been registered as a political party member without realising it. She alleged that the incident occurred during a programme organised by the Madani Community Centre for the Indera Mahkota parliamentary constituency last Sunday.
According to the recipient, an organiser photographed her identity card after telling her it was only required for record-keeping purposes.
Following the allegation, Chan called for PKR to investigate the matter and take appropriate action if any principles or procedures had been breached, stressing the need to clarify the claims.
Zukri said PKR respected the concerns raised and remained committed to ensuring all party programmes were conducted transparently, with integrity and respect for the public’s choices.
“Party membership must come from confidence in PKR’s struggle, not through coercion or misunderstanding,” he said.
He added that PKR regularly organises welfare activities, visits and appreciation programmes for the community and new members, including the distribution of food baskets.
Zukri said the food baskets distributed by the party were funded through party resources and contributions from various parties, rather than official allocations from the Federal or state governments.
He said the distribution was not limited to the poor or those in need, as it could also form part of community engagement activities and appreciation programmes for new members who had voluntarily joined the party.
However, he stressed that food aid must never be used as a condition, reward or inducement for anyone to register as a party member.
“There is no party policy or directive that allows any form of coercion in matters concerning membership,” he said.
