KUCHING: Sarawak Democratic Action Party (DAP) chairman Chong Chieng Jen has reaffirmed that the Palestine solidarity programme remains optional for schools and education institutions in the state.
He urged school principals not to feel obligated to organise the programme, especially in the absence of proper guidelines for its implementation.
“Given that this is such a complicated and emotive issue, we have witnessed that some schools have veered off-course, fostering hatred and violence contrary to the programme’s intended purpose.
“We have also seen viral videos of students exhibiting weapons and violent behaviour, which is why we contacted the Deputy Minister of Education Lim Hui Ying to confirm that the programme is not compulsory but a matter of choice for schools,” he said.
He made these remarks after the prize presentation ceremony of the Rocket Inter Team Badminton Tournament at Stapok Badminton Court here today (Nov 5).
On the issue of the progress report required by the Sarawak Education Department , he advised schools that chose not to organise the programme to submit a report stating so to simplify the process.
“It is up to the school to organise the programme. If the school did not organise, just submit a report saying as such. That would suffice,” he said.
Furthermore, Chong assured support to schools encountering difficulties with the Ministry of Education (MoE), encouraging them to reach out.
He also pledged to facilitate communication with the MoE to resolve any issues that may arise.
