PUTRAJAYA (July 26): The existing guidelines on programme organisation and donation acceptance, including stipulating that donations must not involve displaying or promoting alcoholic beverages within educational institutions under the Ministry of Education (MOE), remain in force.

In a statement on Friday, the Ministry of Education (MOE) said that the decision was made during the Cabinet meeting held on Wednesday.

Additionally, the MOE noted that the meeting also agreed to give consideration to vernacular schools receiving fund donations through the School Management Board (LPS) and foundations. This practice has been followed under several previous administrations, and has not been disputed by any party.

“However, the Cabinet emphasised that the organisation of activities involving liquor brands must not include Muslim students,” it said.

Recently, media reported that MOE is investigating a charity programme organised at a school, involving a donation from a beer company.

Its Minister, Fadhlina Sidek, reportedly said that administrators of educational institutions under the MOE are advised to adhere to guidelines, when managing donations from external parties.

This issue was brought to light following Deputy Housing and Local Government Minister, Aiman Athirah Sabu’s participation in a fundraising event for a Chinese school, which received donations from a beer company.

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