KUALA LUMPUR – The upcoming Palestine Solidarity Week in schools is aimed at nurturing empathy and enlightening students who are already exposed to news on the humanitarian crisis resulting from the war waged by Israel on Palestine.
In a statement today, the Education Ministry said the programme, scheduled to take place between October 29 and November 3, is an intervention measure for students in schools, vocation colleges, matriculation and teacher’s teaching institutes nationwide.
“This programme aims to educate students on humanitarian issues that include human rights and altruism. This includes empathy and concern for the suffering of others, regardless of race, religion or social status.
“Palestine Solidarity Week is a continuation of the noble values based on respect, love, responsibility and joy as taught in Civic Education at school. In addition, the programme allows the students to be exposed to Cross Curriculum Elements (EMK), especially those related to global sustainability.”
It added that various activities will be implemented in this programme, which are adapted based on existing guidelines, and religious activities such as prayers will only involve Muslim students.
The ministry said it is also answering the call of the Malaysian government to defend the rights and freedom of the Palestinian people.
“This support is a form of solidarity towards human values on universal peace and security,” it said.
Earlier, Scoop reported that the ministry’s internal circular dated October 21 had instructed all educational institutions under the ministry, including schools, vocational colleges, matriculation colleges and teacher’s training institutes, to observe Palestine Solidarity Week.
However, this directive received a mixed response from educationists and elected representatives. – October 26, 2023