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KUALA LUMPUR - Malaysia must remain steadfast in its position on Palestinian rights while ensuring that the recent controversy involving Network School does not unnecessarily affect its broader relationship with the United States (US), said Kepong Member of Parliament Lim Lip Eng.
He said Malaysia’s support for the freedom, dignity and rights of the Palestinian people remains firm but the controversy arising from Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s remarks concerning alleged Israeli involvement in Network School should nevertheless be addressed with clarity, restraint and responsible diplomacy.
"The Prime Minister’s remarks were made in the context of an ongoing investigation. He stated that Israeli nationals involved in Network School would be deported if their presence was confirmed,” he said in a statement today.
He said Malaysia has the sovereign right to enforce its immigration laws but any action must be based on verified facts, immigration status and applicable law, rather than religion or ethnicity.
Lim said the revocation of Network School’s business licence was based on regulatory breaches relating to licensing conditions and the approved use of the premises and it should not be interpreted as proof that Israeli nationals were present.
Meanwhile, he said the concerns expressed by eight members of the US House of Representatives should be taken seriously, although their letter is a request to the US Secretary of State and not a decision of the United States government.
He said Wisma Putra is urged to engage the US administration and the lawmakers concerned, explain the context of the Prime Minister’s remarks and provide the verified findings through the appropriate diplomatic channels.
"A measured and factual response will best protect Malaysia’s principles, sovereignty and international standing,” he added. - BERNAMA