28-10-2023 (KUALA LUMPUR) Images circulating online depicting children and teachers in Malaysian schools brandishing mock firearms as part of government-endorsed Palestine solidarity programmes have sparked concern among local residents. The activities, which have received criticism from the Education Ministry, have raised questions about the involvement of extremist elements.
One video shared on social media showed teachers walking before assembled students at an unidentified school, carrying toy guns while wearing black-and-white chequered Palestinian keffiyeh scarves. Photos from other schools revealed students wearing green bandanas with the words “Save Palestine” and holding pretend weapons.
Some of the photos were initially shared on WhatsApp by a teacher who commended her students, with captions referencing Malaysia’s Integrated Special Education Programme (PPKI).
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim called for better control over the solidarity programme, stating that while schools were encouraged to show solidarity, participation should not be forced. He emphasized the need for proper regulation to prevent any problems from arising.
The Education Ministry of Malaysia condemned the use of toy guns in the solidarity programmes, stating that the use of replica weapons, icons, and symbols in a provocative or confrontational manner is strictly prohibited. They emphasized that the programme in question fell outside the designated period for the Palestine Solidarity Week and did not adhere to the ministry’s guidelines. The statement further asserted that activities with extremist elements would not be tolerated, and all institutions under the ministry’s purview must adhere to established guidelines.
Mak find this disturbing lahhh…
Mcm menaba.kan bibit2 terrorism kepada anak2 pun ada.
Got better way to send “Save Palestine” message kot. Not like this pic.twitter.com/ZgsxZ1Ox7Z
— CatsForPalestine (@KlutzyKucing) October 27, 2023
The Education Ministry had previously informed administrators of public institutions, including vocational and matriculation colleges, about the upcoming Palestine Solidarity Week, scheduled to take place from October 29 to November 3. The planned activities included an official launch during morning assemblies, fundraising initiatives for the people of Palestine, and the presentation of songs and videos related to humanitarian issues in the war-stricken region.
The educational programmes have sparked concerns among Malaysians online, with some questioning the focus solely on the Palestinian cause and neglecting other refugee crises or human rights issues. They emphasized that championing causes should be based on human rights principles rather than religion. Others expressed reservations about involving students in international political conflicts and the potential for the matter to incite racial sentiments.
Multiple civil society groups have also objected to the solidarity week, with the Kuala Lumpur-based Global Human Rights Federation issuing a joint statement on behalf of 17 non-governmental organizations. They claimed that the proposed programme had not been adequately considered for its long-term impact and had been decided upon without parliamentary discussions or consultations with parents.
Some states in Malaysia are seeking to deviate from the directives issued by the ministry. The schools in the eastern state of Sarawak will not be obligated to organize the solidarity week programme, according to Chong Chieng Jen, the Member of Parliament for the Stampin constituency. He confirmed that he had obtained this information from federal Deputy Education Minister Lim Hui Ying. Chong expressed concerns about involving schoolchildren in the complex and emotionally charged issue of the Palestine-Israel conflict, stating that anger and hatred are often associated with such matters.
Similarly, schools in Sabah will also not be required to hold Palestine solidarity programmes, as stated by the state’s Industrial Development Minister, Phoong Jin Zhe.
The ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict has prompted numerous rallies in Malaysia, attended by leaders from across the political spectrum, to express solidarity with the Palestinian community in the Gaza Strip. The conflict has resulted in the deaths of over 7,300 people, predominantly civilians, according to Gaza health officials.
In addition to the school programmes, young Malaysians have shown support for Palestinians by organizing virtual peace rallies on the gaming platform Roblox. Within the game, players’ avatars carry flags in the Palestinian colours, participating in virtual parades alongside other players.
