Mayor Wee calls for unity amidst school fundraiser debate

KUCHING (July 28): Fundraising activities which have been held over the last 30 years in the country have garnered at least RM400 million, benefitting at least 500 Chinese schools and other vernacular schools, said Datuk Wee Hong Seng.

The Kuching South mayor said such fundraisers have been playing a pivotal role for the continued development and progress of Chinese schools across the nation.

“All along, no issue has been brought up over these fundraising events. What’s more, the sponsors including liquor distributors are mainly to provide venue for the fundraisers.

“They are not at those events to sell liquor but to provide not just venue and also sound system and equipment as well as to cover expenses on inviting artistes to stage performances,” he told his Facebook live session ‘Shall WEE Talk’ on Saturday.

He said this in response to the recent debate over liquor distributors sponsoring fundraisers organised by Chinese schools.

Wee pointed out that many artistes who agreed to perform for fundraising events organised by Chinese schools did so chiefly for charity purpose.

According to him, these performers are provided with minimal allowances to showcase their talents so as to raise funds for Chinese schools.

“Such support for Chinese education in the country and the sponsorship from liquor distributors should not be misinterpreted,” he said.

Instead of debating over such matter, the mayor opined that political leaders ought to channel their focus and energy to addressing more pressing issues such as economic development.

In this multi-racial country, Wee said people should reach out and understand each other rather than resorting to creating division among the community.

He was pleased that Chinese independent secondary schools in Sarawak are fortunate to have the state government granted annual allocation for them.

“However, their counterparts in Peninsular Malaysia are not as fortunate as they are. This is why they need to raise funds from the community,” he said.

As a city mayor, Wee said he hoped to see all elected representatives irrespective of race and faith render their support for Chinese education and uphold Chinese culture.

“Let’s focus on bringing about more development to the country and preserve social harmony,” he added.