Don't involve children in global politics, says Baru Bian

KUCHING: Educational institutions should not be entangled in global political disputes, including the Israel-Hamas crisis, says Ba'Kelalan assemblyman Baru Bian.

The Parti Sarawak Bersatu (PSB) secretary-general said the party stood in solidarity with innocent victims caught in the crossfire of complex international conflicts.

He then added that involving young children in politically complicated matters was not conducive to their wellbeing and education.

"Schools should remain neutral spaces for learning, growth and understanding. This is particularly crucial in our country where political parties routinely play on religious and racial issues to drum up support,” said Baru.

"This unhealthy and dangerous practice must be stopped and not encouraged," he added in a statement on Thursday (Oct 26).

Baru said the Education Ministry's directive for government education institutions to hold a solidarity week in support of the Palestinian cause showed a lack of discernment by the authorities entrusted with shaping school children’s minds and their future.

He said such directives were not within the ambit of the ministry, which should maintain the impartiality of the education system.

"Moreover, we must consider the precedent set by such actions. If we involve schools in one international conflict, what would stop us from doing the same in the case of other wars, like the Ukraine conflict or any future crisis," he said.

"We call upon the Prime Minister and the Education Ministry to reconsider this decision and ensure that our schools remain sanctuaries for unbiased education, where children are nurtured to be responsible, compassionate and well-informed global citizens,” added Baru.