Former economy minister Rafizi Ramli has criticised education minister Fadhlina Sidek for getting students to greet Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim for his birthday and state that they “love” him.
In a now viral video, Fadhlina was seen encouraging students to say “Happy Birthday PMX, We Love You” at a gathering.
Anwar turned 78 years old on Aug 10.
Stressing that politics has no place in schools, Rafizi told Fadhlina not to mix her personal interests with children’s education.
“Even if she truly loves Anwar and wants to show her loyalty, a simple statement from her would have been enough — there was no need to involve the students,” said Rafizi in a post on X.
“Doing this sets a precedent where future education ministers may also ask students and pupils to express loyalty and admiration for other leaders.
“That should not happen — schools must not be used to spread political or personal views.”
The former PKR deputy president said he was embarrassed to see Fadhlina, a senior party figure, politicise education.
Fadhlina is the Wanita PKR chief.
Rafizi, the Pandan MP, said that PKR members now have no right to criticise other politicians if they bring political messages to schools.
Separately, Parent Action Group for Education Malaysia chairman Noor Azimah Abdul Rahim said the incident could be perceived negatively by the public in view of the recent unresolved death of a 13-year-old student in Sabah.
Form 1 student Zara Qairina Mahathir was found unconscious on July 16 after she allegedly fell from the third floor of her school’s hostel in Papar, Sabah, before dying the next day.
The Attorney-General’s Chambers had ordered Zara’s remains to be exhumed for a post-mortem to be carried out. This followed allegations of bullying, with a task force from the Bukit Aman criminal investigation department sent yesterday to Sabah to take over investigations.
Hundreds of Sabahans gathered at several locations across the state last weekend to demand justice for Zara.
Civil society groups today urged Putrajaya to set up an independent commission to investigate the death and other bullying cases involving students.
“The symbolism matters,” said Noor Azimah. “Public leaders are expected to show empathy, solidarity and moral alignment with the mood of the people.
“In politics, perception often matters as much as intention. A joyful celebration amid grief risks appearing indifferent, which can erode trust and credibility,” Noor Azimah said.
