Abdul Hadi Awang was born on October 20, 1947, in Kampung Rusila, Terengganu, Malaysia. He hailed from a family deeply rooted in religion and activism. His father, Haji Awang Mohamad, was a Tok Guru (religious teacher) and a political activist in the Hizbul Muslimin Terengganu, a party later banned by the colonial government. This early exposure to Islamic values and political struggles undoubtedly shaped Hadi’s life path.
Hadi’s education began with his father’s tutelage in 1955. He then progressed through the traditional educational system, attending the Rusila National School, Marang Religious School, and Sultan Zainal Abidin Religious Secondary School. His thirst for knowledge led him to pursue further studies in Saudi Arabia, where he obtained a bachelor’s degree in Islamic Shariah from the Islamic University of Madinah. He later earned a master’s degree in Siyasah Syar’iyyah (Political Science) from Al-Azhar University in Egypt.
Early Career and Rise in PAS:
Upon returning to Malaysia, Hadi followed in his father’s footsteps and became a khatib, delivering Friday sermons. However, his aspirations extended beyond the community level. He joined Angkatan Belia Islam Malaysia (ABIM), a youth Muslim organization, in 1977 and quickly rose to become its Terengganu state chief. This experience honed his leadership skills and provided a platform to engage in wider political discourse.
In 1978, Hadi took the plunge into national politics by contesting a parliamentary seat for PAS, the Malaysian Islamic Party. His dedication and charisma saw him rise through the party ranks. He became PAS deputy president in 1989 and ultimately succeeded Fadzil Noor as president in 2002.
Political Career and Controversies:
Hadi Awang’s political career has been marked by both success and controversy. He served as the Member of Parliament for Marang since 1990, leading PAS to electoral victories in several state elections, including Terengganu in 1999. During his time as Menteri Besar (Chief Minister) of Terengganu from 1999 to 2004, he implemented Islamic laws, including the Hudud enactments, which drew both praise and criticism.
However, Hadi Awang’s outspoken nature and conservative views have also made him a polarizing figure. He has been accused of making inflammatory remarks against non-Muslim minorities and dissenters within the Muslim community. This has led to investigations by the Malaysian police and criticism from various political and religious groups.
Legacy and Beyond:
Despite the controversies, Hadi Awang remains a significant figure in Malaysian politics and religion. He is seen as a champion of Islamic values by his supporters and a symbol of religious conservatism by his critics. His influence extends beyond Malaysia, as he previously served as the vice-president of the International Union of Muslim Scholars.
Abdul Hadi Awang’s life and career offer a complex and multifaceted narrative of faith, politics, and societal change in Malaysia. His story continues to be debated and interpreted, leaving an indelible mark on the nation’s landscape.