Ministry asks for report on toy guns in school during Palestine programme

Ministry asks for report on toy guns in school during Palestine programme

Minister Fadhlina Sidek says the guidelines for Palestine Solidarity Week are very clear and replicas of weapons are strictly prohibited in school premises.

Two pupils displaying toy guns during the Palestine Solidarity Week programme at a school.
NIBONG TEBAL:
The education ministry has ordered a thorough investigation into replicas of weapons found in a school, which allegedly promote extremist elements during Palestine Solidarity Week.

Following pictures and videos of the replicas of weapons going viral since yesterday, education minister Fadhlina Sidek said she was waiting for a detailed report before taking further action.

“It (the school programme) must adhere to the established guidelines, including guidelines for Palestine Solidarity Week, which are very clear.

“Alhamdulillah, it occurred peacefully, focussing on humanity, peace, and global security themes,” she told reporters when met after launching the Taman Angkat Amanita at SMK Saujana Indah, in Taman Pekaka, here today.

Also present was Penang police chief Khaw Kok Chin.

Fadhlina, who is Nibong Tebal MP, was commenting on calls from different parties, including parents and DAP, urging the ministry to take disciplinary action against organisers promoting violence in schools during Palestine Solidarity Week.

Commenting further, Fadhlina said the programme in schools was being encouraged as it promotes positive values and understanding among students.

However, she said the ministry will not compromise on elements of radicalism, extremism or violence. Weapons, including replicas, are strictly prohibited within school premises, she added.

“Therefore, we request everyone, especially those in educational institutions, to fully adhere to the guidelines we have provided.

“That’s why we organised Palestine Solidarity Week only for a limited period, specifically from Oct 29 to Nov 3. This is to allow us to better control and monitor it.

“Any school found violating these guidelines will face appropriate action,” she added.

Earlier, a video recording went viral on social media depicting a school programme showing elements of extremism in expressing support for the Palestinian people.

The ministry said the event in the video was held outside of the designated period for the Palestine Solidarity Week programme and did not follow the guidelines set by the ministry.

Stay current - Follow FMT on WhatsApp, Google news and Telegram

Subscribe to our newsletter and get news delivered to your mailbox.