KOTA TINGGI: Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin stated that higher education institutions have the freedom to show solidarity with Palestine based on their own rules and regulations. The Higher Education Minister emphasized that each university has its own approach and the ministry would not interfere unless necessary. He clarified that the Higher Education Ministry and the Education Ministry are separate bodies with the former only coordinating universities and matters related to tertiary education. Mohamed Khaled made these remarks at the Madani Health Programme inauguration at MegaKlinik QMS Kota Tinggi, on Saturday (Oct 28).
When asked about the Education Ministry’s decision to organize a Palestine Solidarity Week from Oct 29 to Nov 3, encompassing all educational institutions under its purview, Mohamed Khaled underscored that it does not mean the same will apply to the Higher Education Ministry. The ministry has simply informed universities of the need to support the Palestine Humanitarian Fund.
On Thursday (Oct 26), the Education Ministry issued a statement stating that Palestine Solidarity Week will be implemented in all educational institutions under its purview, including schools, vocational and matriculation colleges, and teacher training institutes across the country. The primary objective of this initiative is to foster humane values, encompassing human rights and courtesy, and instill empathy and concern for all individuals, regardless of their race, religion, or social status, the statement noted.
However, on Friday (Oct 27), the ministry issued another statement clarifying that it will not tolerate any elements of extremism and violence during the organization of Palestine Solidarity Week. This decision followed the circulation of a viral video on X and TikTok, showing a man armed with a replica rifle participating in a school program, which caused concern among Malaysians. The ministry acknowledged the public concern and acknowledged that the program in question did not abide by its guidelines.
