KUCHING, Nov 13: The ‘directive’ by the federal Education Ministry imposing conditions or barring Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) ministers, assistant ministers and elected representatives from attending school function has been condemned as irrational and irresponsible.
Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu Sarawak (PBB) information chief Datuk Idris Buang opined such a directive is against the spirit of federalism as envisaged by the country’s forefathers via Malaysia Agreement 1963 and the Federal Constitution.
“The federal government and Education minister Dr Maszlee Malik should appreciate our willingness to assist in anyway we can to uplift the wellbeing of our schools and students, even though they are the one responsible in terms of funding and policy.
“Our schools and children in Sarawak are pretty much our responsibility, in ensuring that the buildings are safe and functional, and our children get the best education and teaching methods available,” according to Idris in a statement.
As a concerned elected representative and parent, Idris emphasised that the federal government cannot be lackadaisical towards Sarawakian children.
“As members of the Sarawak Legislative Assembly, we’ve been engaging with Parent-Teacher Associations (PIBGs) and teachers in order to know what is going on in schools and with students. We gave assistance in many forms to help them with repair works, and educational and sports activities which we will continue to help with,” Idris added.
Drawing from his past experiences and knowledge, he alleged that most PIBGs and schools in his constituency faced difficulties in getting things done through the federal government.
“Why are we being prevented from attending or officiating at events by PIBGs and schools when we are needed by these groups? Preventing us this way equals to preventing our schools, PIBGs and students from receiving our assistance from the state government.
“There is nothing in the law that allows this type of ‘directive’. This is not only an act of discrimination, but also a mockery of the liberty of subjects under the Federal Constitution,” Idris claimed. — DayakDaily
