KUCHING: Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah has serious misgivings about involving students, especially the younger lot, in the Palestinian Solidarity Week.
To the Minister of Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development it would be inappropriate to do so given their tender age.
“However, I see no issue with adults or those in higher education institutions (IPTs) participating, as they are free to choose and express their stance.
“We want our youths in IPTs to have the space to voice their opinions,” he said.
In this context he expressed concern that children at the kindergarten, primary, and secondary school levels may not fully grasp the true complexity of the Gaza-Israel conflict.
“The Ministry of Education (MoE) should limit the involvement of students in this matter and refrain from associating it with young children and those still in school,” he said.
He made these remarks after attending the Sarawak Solidarity Gathering with Palestine at Celebration Square of Sarawak Sports Complex, Petra Jaya here Saturday (Oct 28).
Elaborating on his stance, Abdul Karim remarked that including children in the demonstration of solidarity is an inappropriate method of educating them.
“This is particularly evident when I see pictures and videos of young children carrying toy guns and the like. This is not the way; we should not educate young children in this manner.
“I hope that the Education Minister can reconsider this matter. Do not involve young children but involve those who are already in university because they are free to express their views,” he stressed.
MOE, through a statement announced that they would implement the Palestinian Solidarity Week in all educational institutions under MoE from Oct 29 to Nov 3, in line with the government’s commitment to stand together in defending the rights and freedom of the Palestinian people.
According to Abdul Karim, the programme will take place in schools, vocational colleges, matriculation colleges, and teacher training institutes nationwide.
It is aimed to educate students about humanitarian values, including human rights and compassion. This encompasses empathy and concern for the suffering of individuals, regardless of nationality, religion, or social status.
