Dr Maszlee criticised over plan to include 1MDB issue in History syllabus

PETALING JAYA: Malaysians have criticised Education Minister Dr Maszlee Malik's plan to include the 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) scandal and kleptocracy as part of the History syllabus.

Many took to Facebook on Monday (Dec 3), urging Dr Maszlee to focus on the more "relevant" issues instead, such as on teachers' burden and stress in schools.

"There are more problems being faced by the teachers in Malaysia and you are making such statements and decisions. 

"Teachers are facing loads of stress from all the unnecessary work that is being given, you are not helping them at all," Facebook user Chris Mashii said.

Some users even took the liberty to remind Dr Maszlee that the case surrounding 1MDB has not been concluded.

"What about 1MDB will be taught? The case is still under investigation. A lot of it is still conjecture. Does he know something we don't?" Arena Razak said.

"History books are all about facts and not entirely public judgement. How can we include it without court judgement.? Let the judiciary proceeding take place and conclude the case before talking about 'Sejarah'," Gary W Chan said.

Many also gave suggestions on what syllabus Dr Maszlee should include, such as subjects on peace, harmony and unity.

"First of all, have syllabus on unity; and how the country got together as a nation to get its independence. Teach the younger generation about tolerance and harmony," Sudhasen Mooruthi said.

"There are so many positives that children can learn from. Why would you want to instil hatred and negativity into such young and innocent minds? Teach them about peace, love, tolerance instead," said Regina Feng.

Earlier, Dr Maszlee announced that the 1MDB issue and how some leaders robbed the nation will be included in the history books so that  future generations will not make the same mistake.

He said this when answering a supplementary question by Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan (BN-Pontian) in Parliament.