KUALA LUMPUR: The assurance by Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek that school canteens are to continue operations during Ramadan showcases mutual goodwill and respect which the people should aspire to, espcially during the holy month of Ramadan.
Wanita MCA deputy chairperson Tee Hooi Ling said persons in authority should refrain from breeding enmity based on race and religion, but instead, strive for harmony.
"It is a blessing that common Malaysians are decent and reasonable people who rise above prejudice.
"The directive takes into account Malaysia's diversity and the co-existence among races in the country.
"Individuals be they politicians or public figures, need to realise the divisive end result when they hype up and politicise the directive.
"Twisting the directive into a religious polemic is a disservice as it will only inflict further polarisation amongst communities," she said in a statement today.
On Monday, Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said school canteens will remain operational during Ramadan for students.
However, yesterday, Pas has voiced concern regarding the ministry's decision, deeming it as an excessive action that may provoke unnecessary public controversy.
Teo said the public should take a leaf from the heartwarming and now viral photo of the first day of school at SJKC Yu Hua in Kajang, which showed two Year one pupils, a Malay and a Chinese, photographed walking hand in hand.
"As the Malay pupil appeared apprehensive at walking past the school gate, an equally nervous looking Chinese pupil held the Malay pupil's hand to accompany her to school.
"Adults, in particular race-baiting politicians should learn from these two Year 1 children. Complete strangers of a different faith, yet they discover support and strength from each other".
Teo said it has been common practice for school canteens to stay open during the fasting month and there has never been any issue of any student's faith being weakened due to the canteen's operations.
Wanita MCA also expressed hope that the unfortunate episode in 2013 when non-fasting pupils of SK Seri Peristana were made to eat in an area in a changing room next to washroom cubicles will not recur.
"We also need to bear in mind that certain students may have health issues which necessitate the canteen to stay open. For example, a student might be menstruating or has not reached puberty, is unwell or requires nourishment.
"Meanwhile, school canteens derive their income from students. To shutter its operations for a month would mean one month less income for the operator despite the need to pay the rent, bills for utilities and employee wages," added Tee.