Politicians Urged To Keep Kuala Kubu Baru By-Election Campaign Respectful And Inclusive

DAP's national publicity secretary, Teo Nie Ching, emphasized today the importance of maintaining a respectful and inclusive approach during the Kuala Kubu Baru (KKB) by-election campaign. She called on politicians to avoid igniting racial tensions and instead focus on promoting unity.

Teo, who also serves as Kulai MP, addressed her remarks to PAS information chief Ahmad Fadhli Shaari. Shaari had recently shifted his focus to criticize Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidate Pang Sock Tao's background in a Chinese vernacular school, known as SJK(C).

"YB Pasir Mas may have reservations about [Pang Sock Tao] attending an SJK(C), but PAS leaders and many other Malay parents also choose these schools for their children," Teo pointed out in a statement. “Every parent wants the best education for their child, so their school choices should be respected.”

Teo emphasized that political candidates and party leaders should campaign with integrity and set positive examples, ensuring the nation remains harmonious and respectful of its diversity.

The scrutiny of KKB candidates' educational qualifications began when Perikatan Nasional's (PN) candidate, Khairul Azhari Saut, faced questions about his listed academic achievements. His election poster noted an "executive diploma" from the University of Malaya and an "executive master" from Universiti Malaysia Pahang.

Khairul reassured his critics that his qualifications were from local institutions and could be verified easily. Meanwhile, Ahmad Fadhli challenged PH's candidate to disclose her SPM and UPSR examination results, adding that it “would be interesting to know.”

In response, Pang Sock Tao shared both her examination transcripts on social media, revealing she scored 10 As in her SPM examination and seven As in her UPSR. Later, Ahmad Fadhli apologized for his remarks but pointed out that Pang's disclosure revealed she had attended an SJK(C).

The legality of vernacular schools in Malaysia was affirmed earlier in February when the Federal Court upheld a previous ruling declaring their existence constitutional. This decision supports the continued operation of vernacular schools within the country.

Overall, the KKB by-election campaign serves as an opportunity for political parties to demonstrate respectful campaigning and foster harmony amidst Malaysia's rich diversity.

Teo's call for a respectful campaign echoes the nation's desire for a more harmonious and inclusive political climate. As candidates and parties move forward in the by-election, it is crucial they set a positive precedent for the future of Malaysia's political landscape by focusing on the issues and working together for the betterment of all.

Zulaikha Farhana is a content creator under the Newswav Creator programme, where you get to express yourself, be a citizen journalist, and at the same time monetize your content & reach millions of users on Newswav. Log in to creator.newswav.com and become a Newswav Creator now!

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