THE Education Ministry (MOE) has denied any elements of discrimination against non-Muslims at a Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) workshop for pupils at a convent school in Johor.

In a statement, MOE clarified that there were two workshops organised by the school to avoid disrupting the festivities for students celebrating Chinese New Year.

“The MOE would like to respond to the viral issue involving a workshop for SPM pupils at the Infant Jesus Convent School in Johor. It said these students will attend the workshop on January 26 and 27.

“After a thorough investigation, MOE found that the workshop was one of many plans to ensure pupils regardless of race and religion can prepare for SPM,” it said in a statement.

The MOE said on January 19 and 20, SPM Preparation Workshop for candidates was held at Suasana Hotel, Johor Baru involving 30 candidates who failed in Malay and History subjects, as well as other pupils who failed in other subjects.

“The workshop was separated to prevent interference from those preparing to celebrate Chinese New Year and the follow-up workshop for other candidates had been planned on January 26 and 27 at the same hotel.”

“There are no elements of discrimination against non-Muslims, as alleged by many on social media,” it said.

The MOE said it will improve on its communication methods so that such a misunderstanding does not arise in future.

It was reported this afternoon that parents and the public had reacted strongly to claims that a workshop for SPM pupils at a convent school in Johor was only meant for Muslims.

The workshop, held at a hotel in the state, covered critical subjects, including Additional Mathematics and Chemistry.

However, non-Muslim students were not invited to join the workshop after it was said that a private donor had paid for the whole two-day and one night stay. – January 24, 2023.