Stop Giving Canteen Bak Kut Teh Issues Racial Twist Gerakan Leader

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A Gerakan leader has urged politicians to stop turning the issue of school canteen operations during Ramadan and the recognition of bak kut teh as a national heritage food into racial issues.
According to the party's human rights bureau chief Chai Ko Thing, the country must always move forward, and politicians should never be narrow-minded by disrespecting the unity built over the years.
"Politicians should never flame the fire on the issue of school canteens remaining operational during Ramadan.
"Gerakan also reminds all quarters, regardless of their political alliance, that unity is a collective responsibility, and thus, don't spout remarks that can cause hatred among the rakyat," Chai (above) said in a statement today.
Although he did not mention names, Chai's remark was believed to be about PAS ulama wing leader Ahmad Yahaya accusing Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek of triggering an “unnecessary” polemic by assuring that school canteens will continue operating during Ramadan.
Education Minister Fadhlina SidekFadhlina stood her ground on the issue yesterday, saying she did not want to see students forced to eat in “inappropriate” conditions at school throughout the fasting month.
Prioritise economy
PAS and Perikatan Nasional leaders have also vehemently opposed the gazetting of pork-based dish bak kut teh as a national heritage food.
Gerakan and PAS are components of the opposition coalition PN.
Elaborating, Chai urged politicians from both sides of the divide to prioritise the country's economic growth and harmony, moving forward.
He stressed that the Federal Constitution guaranteed the freedom of religion, and the Rukun Negara also reminded the rakyat to stay loyal to the country.
"It is unwise for politicians to give petty issues a racial tinge to gain political brownie points.
"It is better if politicians used their wisdom to drive the country's development.
“It's going to be almost 70 years since we achieved independence, and we will be left behind if we keep playing up racial issues," Chai added. - Mkini

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