RATHER than demanding accountability from MCA, DAP should prioritise resolving the Education Ministry’s (MOE) circular banning tobacco and alcohol companies from sponsoring Chinese school fundraising events, said MCA.

Its secretary-general Datuk Chong Sin Woon was responding Kampar MP Chong Zemin who had previously pointed out that a circular which forbids schools from receiving funds generated from the sale of tobacco products and alcoholic beverages was issued in March 2018 when MCA was part of the Barisan Nasional (BN) government.

This is in light of the recent controversy surrounding a Chinese vernacular school in Sepang, Selangor which was said to receive donations from a company producing alcoholic beverages.

“It does not come as a surprise that DAP seeks accountability from MCA whenever issues arise. DAP should trust that MCA will provide necessary explanations,” Chong said in a statement.

“However, concerning the recent circular prohibiting schools from accepting donations from alcohol companies, DAP, as the largest party in the ruling coalition, should press the MOE to withdraw it to avoid hindering the development of mother-tongue education.”

Chong said during BN’s 61-year rule, attacks from extreme viewpoints were common, and the coalition had resolved such issues through consensus, alerting officials on national principles, and defending the country’s multi-stream education system.

“DAP has now been in power twice, almost two years in the current term. What have they done to uphold our balanced and diverse education framework?” he asked.

“Chong Zemin claimed that the circular was issued on March 29, 2018 while the dissolution of Parliament fell on April 7. However, the dates are irrelevant. The key issue rests on the circular’s content,” Chong remarked.

“The MOE has issued many circulars without controversy. The correct approach whenever any controversy arises is for the minister to address them promptly, not divert attention.

“Furthermore, Pakatan Harapan (PH) took office after the 2018 election, and DAP’s Teo Nie Ching became deputy education minister on July 2, 2018.

“The circular existed throughout her 22-month tenure. If she was aware, why didn’t she blame BN then? Why didn’t she object or amend it? Why did DAP miss that opportunity?”

Chong stressed that DAP should focus on finding success solutions rather than making excuses, saying now that they are in power, they must defend the right of vernacular schools with practical actions.

“Alternatively, DAP could learn from BN’s parliamentary methods by persuading the minister to rescind the circular swiftly,” he pointed out.

“(Deputy education minister) Wong Kah Woh needs not criticise PAS, and Chong Zemin should refrain from demanding explanations from MCA. If this task cannot be completed, does MCA need to explain for DAP’s incompetence?”

Recall that in light of the controversy, Wong had accused PAS of distorting facts, saying that the Islamist party’s aim was to cause a stir among the Malay community for its own political gain.

In a Facebook post, Wong noted that Tiger, which is owned by Heineken Malaysia Bhd, had hosted these fundraisers for Chinese vernacular schools for 30 years and reduced Putrajaya’s financial burden while enabling schools to upgrade their infrastructure.

He also said over the years, the total funds raised (by Tiger) have exceeded RM400 mil. - July 24, 2024

https://focusmalaysia.my/school-donation-prioritise-resolving-issue-not-point-fingers-dap-told/