TWELVE PKR elected representatives today called on the Education Ministry to review its decision to hold a Palestine Solidarity Week in schools and public institutions.

In a joint statement, they said the decision should be reviewed so that schools and public institutions are free from elements of hatred and violence.

The ministry has announced that it would launch the Palestine Solidarity Week from October 29 to November 3 in all schools under the ministry and teacher training institutes.

The ministry’s aim is to educate students about human values, human rights and concerns for sufferings.

However, yesterday, several video clips went viral on social media showing adults who appeared to be teachers wearing bulletproof vests, balaclavas and pointing toy rifles at students.

Images of similar events have gone viral on social media. One showed a school in Klang where children wore green bandanas with the words “Save Palestine” and carried toy guns.

“We understand that the Education Ministry aims to educate students about human values, human rights and concerns for sufferings, but it is difficult for them to monitor the Palestine solidarity programme without spreading feelings of hatred and violence,” the 12 MPs and state assemblymen said.

“We also urge the ministry to take strict action against any party that fails to comply with the guidelines and provokes violence with toy weapons in schools.

“We also believe that bringing international conflict issues to schools is inappropriate and should be reviewed.”

They said the government, headed by PKR president Anwar Ibrahim, must maintain rational thinking while supporting the struggle of Palestine and not raise issues of hatred and violence in public institutions.

The statement was signed by Gopeng MP Tan Kar Hing, Lee Chean Chung (Petaling Jaya MP), Chiew Choon Man (Miri MP), Lee Boon Heng (Kebun Bunga assemblyman), Chua Wei Kiat (Rawang assemblyman), Chan Chun Kuang (Semambu assemblyman), Wong Chai Yi (Simpang Pulai assemblyman), Yew Boon Lye (Chuah assemblyman), Goh Choon Aik (Bukit Tambun assemblyman), David Cheong Kian Yong (Kajang assemblyman), Arthur Chiong Sen Sern (Bukit Batu assemblyman) and Adam Loh Wei Chai (Bakar Arang assemblyman).

Following the public outburst as a result of the viral video clips, the ministry said violent elements were prohibited during the Palestine Solidarity Week in schools.

“The use of replica weapons, icons and symbols that contain elements of provocation and confrontation is not allowed,” it said.

Anwar had also said the Palestine solidarity programmes in schools must be regulated. – October 28, 2023.