Kuala Lumpur: Fadhlina Sidek, the Education Minister, has issued an apology to the Indian community for not allowing a few Tamil songs to be played at an event in Penang last week.
During the debate for her ministry on the 2024 Budget in Parliament on Monday (Nov 27), Fadhlina (PH-Nibong Tebal) stated, “I would like to take this opportunity to take full responsibility and express my deepest regret on this issue.”
She further added, “I would also like to apologise to the Indian community, especially those who felt slighted with the situation, ‘technical’ mistake and communications, and perhaps what transpired during the event. It really should not have happened.”
P. Prabakaran (PH-Batu) demanded an apology from the Education Ministry for not allowing the Tamil song to be played earlier. The songs “Kadavul Valthu” (a worship song) and “Tamil Valthu” were not allowed during a Tamil language carnival.
Fadlina mentioned that “Kadavul Valthu” would be played during the Penang PKR Deepavali celebrations on Nov 29 so all parties can appreciate the song.
Moreover, she assured that this incident will not occur again and the ministry had taken stern action against those who negligently did not recognize the sensitivity of the issue. “We have taken full responsibility, and there is no issue of us being insensitive. It was unintended and unprecedented, and there was no intention to sideline any race,” she said.
Prabakaran then praised the minister for giving a full explanation, and RSN Rayer (PH-Jelutong) thanked the Education Ministry, urging all parties to continue to support the unity government.
“To the Indian community, please don’t form a new party. There are enough,” added Rayer, reassuring that Tambun (Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim) will ensure the welfare of all races remain protected.
