Minister of Education Fadhlina Sidek issues a warning not to disturb her office in organizing the Week of Solidarity for Palestine in schools after facing heavy criticism earlier. She stated that the Ministry of Education (MOE) is only responding to the call of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim regarding the government's stance to defend the rights and freedom of the Palestinian people.
"Don't disturb us, don't disturb our schools, don't disturb our teachers... over there or over here. Please don't disturb," she said during the rolling out of the 2024 Budget at the ministry level. Previously, a video went viral showing a program in a school that allegedly displayed elements of extremism in expressing support for the Palestinian people.
The 55-second video showed a man pointing a toy gun at students while leading a group of teachers waving the Palestinian flag during an assembly. As a result, on October 31st, the MOE issued a directive prohibiting the use of weapons and political elements in organizing the Week of Solidarity for Palestine in schools. Earlier, Anwar was reported to have called for control over the program to avoid any controversy.
In the meantime, Fadhlina urged the MOE to be given space to carry out its responsibilities and prioritize the process of humanitarian education. "Give us space as a process to understand it as an important message for cultivating humanity. That's why I take all opinions and criticisms into account and listen to them all," she said. She also said that the program is not meant to show which side is superior in the Palestinian issue.
"Children are exposed to a multitude of emotions and they need guidance and direction toward purity," she said. In response to the criticism received, Minister Fadhlina Sidek emphasizes the importance of allowing the Ministry of Education to fulfill its responsibility of providing humanitarian education. She requests understanding and emphasizes that the program aims to teach children about empathy and compassion.
The Minister also ensures that the concerns and criticisms expressed will be taken into consideration. The Ministry's recent directive banning the use of weapons and political elements in school activities underlines their commitment to maintaining a safe and balanced educational environment. Overall, Minister Fadhlina Sidek's statement highlights the importance of promoting understanding and fostering a sense of humanity among students while respecting diverse viewpoints.
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