KUALA LUMPUR: Heated exchanges erupted in the Dewan Rakyat after government and Opposition MPs clashed again over whether vernacular school halls should be rented out for events serving alcohol.
Chow Yu Hui (PH–Raub) said alcohol has long been part of Chinese cultural heritage and social life, adding that serving it at community events in Chinese school halls should not be seen as disrespectful or provocative.
“In Chinese literature and traditions, the theme of wine is often used to teach about history, art and the appreciation of life. For the Chinese community, it is part of their identity and celebration,” he said when debating Budget 2026 in the Dewan Rakyat on Monday (Oct 27).
Chow stressed that teachers do not promote or allow alcohol consumption among students during school hours, and that such events are held by local communities outside teaching hours.
“It is irresponsible to twist the issue and claim that Chinese schools are teaching students to drink,” he added.
However, Mohd Misbahul Munir Masduki (PN–Parit Buntar) questioned the need to hold such functions in schools, saying it could give rise to negative perceptions.
“We respect other cultural practices, but schools are places of learning. When events involving alcohol are held there, it looks inappropriate,” he said, suggesting that hotels or community halls could be used instead.
In response, Chow said that school halls were often the only available venue for community functions in many small towns and villages.
“Not every kampung has a hotel or luxury hall. These events are held outside school hours. And if Chinese schools are so undisciplined, why are so many Malay parents still sending their children there?” he asked, sparking further exchanges.
Tan Kar Hing (PH–Gopeng) also defended the use of school halls, echoing that rural constituencies had limited venues for large-scale community events.
“In some areas, options are very limited. Using the school hall for community programmes should not be seen as a major issue,” he said.
Deputy Dewan Rakyat Speaker Alice Lau later intervened to restore order, reminding MPs that the session was a debate and not a question-and-answer session.
The debate followed the Cabinet’s decision not to introduce new rules on alcohol use at functions held at schools.
Government spokesperson and Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the Cabinet agreed that such events would continue to follow existing Education Ministry guidelines.
