KUCHING: The directive from the Ministry of Education (MoE) to schools and educational institutions to observe a solidarity week in support of the Palestinian cause from Oct 29 to Nov 3 might not prove beneficial, particularly if sentiments become a benchmark for it.
Party Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) Youth chief Datuk Snowdan Lawan said the move could sow seeds of “taking sides” and “divisiveness” among children in their formative years, which is particularly fragile and potentially dangerous in a multi-religious and diverse society like in Sarawak.
He also warned of the potential consequences for the nation’s security and stability if such policies lead to division and discord among the youth.
“Now, we are imposing circulars or policies that could be a time bomb for the whole nation.
“If that happens, who is going to discipline us? Imagine what will be at stake. The nation’s security and stability are at risk.
“If sentiments can be a measured benchmark, it (solidarity week in school) will not prove beneficial. It only defeats good governance,” he said in a statement today.
He voiced his concern over an alleged directive from the Office of the Deputy Director-General of Education (MoE) calling for all schools to observe a solidarity week in support of the Palestinian cause by organising certain activities.
Snowdan, who serves as Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Deputy Minister, stressed the importance of nurturing positive values and knowledge among school-going children.
“Don’t preach hatred and bad creeds to our children and ourselves.
“Our school-going children are supposed to gain intellectual knowledge on their subjects of interest.
“Besides, they should be taught kindness, good morale, sincerity, friendship, love, and many other good deeds for mankind,” he added.
As such, he firmly opposed involving children in international conflicts, particularly referring to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in the Middle East.
He considered such matters too remote and complex for children to engage with and suggested leaving them to the international community and governing bodies like the United Nations to address.
Expressing his scepticism about the alleged directive, the Balai Ringin assemblyman questioned its compatibility with the federal government’s good governance policy.
“The MoE ought to be questioned for issuing contradictory circulars not endorsed by Parliament.
“It looks like MoE has crossed the line by imposing things beyond their core jurisdictions,” added Snowdan.
