State govt’s celebration leaves education dept cold

by Regina William (theedgedaily.com)

PENANG: Can students participate in celebrations to mark George Town’s listing as a World Heritage site?

Going by the response of the state education department, it must be off-limits for them.

Ng Wei Aik (Komtar-DAP) told the state legislative assembly yesterday that the state government had invited the state education department director for three preparatory meetings called by the Penang Island Municipal Council for the celebrations which are scheduled from July 25 to 27.

“However, he failed to attend the meetings. The department has also failed to respond to three letters which have been sent asking for participation from students throughout the state during the celebrations.

“This is another example of attempts by the federal government to sabotage the state government’s efforts to organise this event to celebrate Penang’s listing,” said Ng.

“We wanted to include students to create awareness of our rich heritage. We had also planned to include the students in a guided tour of the streets of harmony, participate in a mural painting session and other activities.

“Since we failed to obtain their response, which needs the department’s approval, we had no choice but to invite kindergarten and college students to participate in the celebrations,” he said in his motion of thanks to the Yang Dipertua Negeri for his opening speech.

The department has also barred schools from inviting state executive councillors and state assemblymen of Pakatan Rakyat from attending functions at schools.

Teachers and students have also been barred from attending any functions organised by the state government.