DAP: Act on violent displays, review Palestine solidarity campaign

DAP is very disturbed over the organisation of a programme in a primary school that included elements of violence and extremism with the use of replica weapons and is calling for strict disciplinary action against those responsible.

"DAP opposes any form of violence and opposes all forms of programmes that exhibit elements of armed violence in all schools involving students at a young age. Such programmes will only give wrong messages and lessons to our young generation.

"Therefore, DAP urges the Education Ministry to take strict disciplinary action against the organisers and to prevent any similar programmes from happening again," said the party's secretary-general Anthony Loke in a statement today.

He said the party feels that since this incident has caused public concern, the ministry should reconsider the organisation of the Palestine Solidarity Week programme in schools and use a more appropriate approach to convey the message among school students.

"Programmes at school should foster the spirit of love for universal peace and apply humane values in forming a personality that is in line with Madani principles. Cross-cultural relationships and understanding as well as mutual respect among peers from different backgrounds should also be fostered.

"DAP reiterates our stance to continue to stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people on humanitarian principles and always support the government's stance to speak out on the world stage for the struggle to liberate Palestine and restore their rightful rights and territory," he said.

Extremism

This comes after the circulation of images of Malaysian schoolchildren carrying toy guns while donning headbands and the black and white “Palestinian scarf” voicing support for Palestine.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim yesterday urged school administrators to control activities organised as part of a “solidarity week” in support of the Palestinian cause.

He said the government encourages schools to organise a Palestinian solidarity week, but it is not compulsory and activities held must also be controlled.

Meanwhile, the Education Ministry said it will not compromise on any form of “extremism” throughout the Palestine Solidarity Week in schools.

"The use of weapon replicas, as well as icons and symbols with provocative or confrontational elements, are strictly prohibited,” said the ministry in a statement yesterday. - Mkini