SHAH ALAM, May 3 — Nik Omar Nik Abdul Aziz has questioned critics from his former party PAS today for labelling him a prodigal son, saying that he is continuing the legacy of his father, the party’s late spiritual leader, Datuk Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat.

In a ceramah in Shah Alam today, Nik Omar said that just like his father, his struggles in Pakatan Harapan (PH) are not just based on Islam, but that he strives for the benefit of everyone regardless of creed.

"They said I betrayed the struggles of Tok Guru. I am confident. I am the one who carries Tok Guru’s legacy!” he said to thunderous applause and cheers from the crowd, referring to the late Kelantan mentri besar.

"We want to choose the team that we have confidence in. Why did I choose Pakatan Harapan? Because I am confident that the approach brought by Pakatan Harapan is similar to that brought by the late Tok Guru,” he added.

Nik Omar said he is well aware of criticism from his family members, who made it seem as if he had abandoned his faith altogether just by choosing to join PH component, Parti Amanah Negara — but he rubbished such allegations.

He also took a swipe at his younger brother Nik Abduh Nik Abdul Aziz, who had written a sharp rebuke, criticising his decision to join PH, advising him that Islam teaches respect for the elderly.

"My fifth brother, he visits his mother when he has time. My second brother, he visits his mother too.

"What does Islam teach? Islam teaches that the elderly, especially elder brothers, regardless whose side they are on, when the younger brothers make mischief, we still love them. That’s what Islam teaches.

"At the same time, Islam teaches that the younger sibling too must know how to respect his brother,” he added.

Nik Abduh, had on April 30, written an open letter via his Facebook, to Nik Omar, expressing his disappointment over the latter’s move to join PH, and contest the Chempaka state seat in Kelantan.

He also accused Nik Omar of hurting their mother’s feelings over the decision.