Don't boycott SMKA Tun Datu Mustapha - Union
KOTA KINABALU (Aug 11): The Sabah Government Teachers' Union (KGKS) is urging the public not to join the gathering in front of Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Agama (SMKA) Tun Datu Mustapha, Limauan in Kinarut, or to boycott the school in question.
In making the appeal, KGKS president Murkam bin Hj Hussein said that this is because the authorities, including the police and forensic experts, have carried out their responsibilities transparently, and all procedures have been followed.
Additionally, he said that the Ministry of Education has provided full support for the investigation process in the interest of justice for Zara Qairina Mahathir.
Zara Qairina, a Form One student at SMKA Tun Datu Mustapha, was found unconscious near the school dormitory drain at 3 am on July 16, and she was later confirmed dead at Queen Elizabeth Hospital 1.
Murkam emphasised that SMKA Tun Datu Mustapha remains safe and there is nothing to worry about.
'School sessions are proceeding as usual, and this case is still under investigation, so let us all await the investigation results,' he stated in a statement on Monday.
He hopes that all parties will remain calm in facing this challenging situation for the benefit of everyone involved. 'This protest is also feared to disrupt school sessions and put pressure on students and teachers,' he added.
Education director-general Dr Mohd Azam Ahmad also urged the public not to gather in front of or boycott the school.
He gave an assurance that the ministry, including the minister and top management, was committed to ensuring justice for the 13-year-old Zara.
He said fairness must also be extended to the school's students and teachers, while safeguarding their emotional and psychological well-being.
'I believe the authorities will carry out their duties to the best of their ability.
'At the ministry's level, the minister will provide full support,' he said after MADANI Teachers Appreciation Event in Kuala Terengganu on Monday.
Azam reiterated the ministry's call for the public to avoid negative actions against the school, such as demonstrations at its premises.
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