KUALA LUMPUR: The Education Ministry has refuted accusations that teachers who support the Opposition will be sacked.
The ministry said that a recent statement by Education Minister Datuk Seri Mahdzir Khalid had been taken out of context on social media.
"The minister gave a general advice that it's better for civil servants to stay away from active politics if it affects their work performance.
"They must also strive to avoid from inciting hatred against the government and its leaders," the ministry said in a statement today.
During a gathering of teachers at Putrajaya on Jan 18, Mahdzir in his new year's message reminded civil servants, especially headmasters, to be mindful of their positions.
He noted that some teachers and principals held positions in Opposition parties, including PKR and Pas, and advised them to focus on teaching their students.
He also advised them to be wise when making decisions and issuing statements against the government, as it could undermine their position in the public sector.
The ministry stressed that Mahdzir had never told them who to vote for, but to serve the people with neutrality and impartiality in providing services.
The ministry expressed regret that his words had been taken out of context and misconstrued by irresponsible parties in social media as to cause anxiety for the education fraternity.
The ministry added that the Public Service Department had issued a directive on April 6, 2009, which prohibited civil servants in top-level management and in the professional and management group from participating in politics.