MIRI, Oct 26: The Ministry of Education’s (MoE) directive for all national schools to hold fundraisers during the proposed ‘Palestinian Solidarity Week’ from Oct 29 to Nov 3 and to screen films and songs related to humanitarian issues in Palestine has faced strong criticism.
Sarawak People’s United Party (SUPP) Central Youth Publicity and Information Secretary Kelvin Hii has questioned why education is being associated with a war.
He pointed out that the conflict between Israel and Palestine is indeed an international issue, but Malaysia, as a diverse, multi-ethnic, and multi-religious country, should not specifically interfere in such a dispute.
Hii emphasised that education should be a neutral sphere aimed at fostering students’ critical thinking and values rather than serving as a means to propagate specific political viewpoints.
He found it puzzling that the MoE is requiring schools to conduct fundraising activities and screen films and songs related to humanitarian issues in Palestine.
Hii stressed that war is inherently tragic, and the MoE’s decision seems to be an attempt to leverage this tragedy for fundraising, which is not appropriate in Malaysia, a multi-ethnic and multi-religious society.
He questioned whether this decision by the MoE had received Cabinet approval or if it was the initiative of specific individuals or groups.
While Malaysia’s Constitution designates Islam as the state religion, it also explicitly guarantees religious freedom.
Hii reminded that Sarawak has always been an open, religiously free, and racially harmonious place that does not allow any divisive ideologies to enter the state.
Unfortunately, education still falls under federal jurisdiction, highlighting the need for Sarawak to reclaim autonomy over its education system.
Regarding the conflict between Israel and Palestine, Hii expressed deep regret and stressed that all wars should be avoided. He extended condolences to those who have lost lives, property, freedom, and loved ones in the war. — DayakDaily
