Schools in Sabah have the discretion to decide whether or not to hold the “Palestine Solidarity Week”, according to a recent circular by the Education Ministry. Sabah Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Minister, Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe, received this confirmation from Education Deputy Minister Lim Hui Ying on Thursday (Oct 26). In a text message, Lim mentioned that schools in Sabah and Sarawak have the option to choose whether or not to conduct the event.
While Phoong acknowledges the Unity government’s support for Palestine on a humanitarian basis, he believes that school children should not be involved. He opines that schools and educational institutions in Malaysia should be kept away from international political conflicts, religious disputes, and wars. Phoong asserts that students should focus on acquiring knowledge instead of participating in adult protests worldwide. In his statement on Friday (Oct 27), he asserts that young students should not be dragged into the ongoing Palestinian-Israeli conflict.
Phoong suggests that the “Palestine Solidarity Week” should be discouraged, not only in Sabah but throughout Malaysia. He urges the Education Ministry to promote the importance of peace in schools instead of involving children in complex political manoeuvres. He acknowledges the Unity government’s stance on supporting Palestine, based on humanitarian grounds.
However, Phoong strongly opposes the participation of underage students in any form of political activities, especially those related to conflicts abroad, as it can impact their physical, mental, and spiritual development. He emphasizes his opposition to acts of war and violence and prays for an early resolution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, allowing local residents to return to peaceful days.
