Pasir Gudang MP challenges hypocrisy in criticism of Palestinian Solidarity Week

PASIR GUDANG - Pasir Gudang MP Hassan Abdul Karim has called out fellow MPs for their hypocritical and "double standard" stance regarding the Education Ministry's Palestinian Solidarity Week, particularly its implementation in schools, which concluded last Friday.

Hassan dismissed claims that the programme could incite students to resort to violence or take up arms.

He stressed that its primary aim is educational, designed to foster a sense of humanity and freedom among students.

"This event is pertinent because the Palestinian issue transcends the Middle East—it's a global humanitarian concern that dates back to 1948. Palestine's populace includes Muslims, Christians, and Jews, which makes it an issue beyond mere religious ties.

"For over 75 years, Palestine has been under Israeli occupation. This is a matter of colonisation, and the goal of the Palestinian Solidarity Week is to enlighten individuals about justice. We must avoid double standards in dealing with such issues.

"In similar situations, like Russia's invasion of Ukraine or the Rohingya refugee crisis in Myanmar, MPs and political parties should have a unified stance—condemnation," he said.

Hassan shared these remarks with journalists following the 'Helping Hands, Helping Heart 2.0' event at Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Pasir Gudang and the distribution of food baskets in Kampung Orang Asli Teluk Jawa earlier today.

From Oct 29 till yesterday, the Education Ministry hosted Palestinian Solidarity Week across various educational institutions, aiming to instill humanitarian values, including human rights and benevolence, among students.

However, this initiative faced criticism from several Pakatan Harapan (PH) MPs, such as Seremban MP Anthony Loke Siew Fook, who disapproved of the programme's execution at a primary school.

They argued it showcased violence and extremism by featuring replica weapons.

The DAP Secretary-General said that the party stands against any form of violence and is against any school programme that depicts armed violence, fearing it could impart the wrong message to young minds.

Hassan further urged MPs, including those from the ruling coalition, to back the Unity Government's policy, which supports the Palestinian quest for independence.

"MPs, irrespective of their political affiliations, might need education on the policies and educational objectives of Palestinian Solidarity Week.

"I am open to discussing the legitimacy of such programs. We should not be opposing virtuous acts.

"It's essential to understand that the Palestinian issue resonates deeply with Muslims and garners support in Malaysia and Indonesia, as Baitul Maqdis holds historical significance as the first qibla for Muslims," he added.

Addressing the controversy over the list of non-Muslim PKR MPs allegedly not aligning with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's stance, Hassan remarked that such matters, akin to viral social media content, don't reflect the party's official stance.

"They resemble a rudderless boat. The blame shouldn't fall on the government or the Prime Minister.

"It's not as if PKR is ignorant of justice or fails to uphold it," said the former PKR Johor chairman.