Kuala lumpur: Malaysia must remain steadfast in its position on Palestinian rights while ensuring that the recent controversy involving Network School does not unnecessarily affect its broader relationship with the United States (US), said Kepong Member of Parliament Lim Lip Eng. He emphasized the importance of maintaining Malaysia's support for the rights and dignity of the Palestinian people, while also addressing the controversy with clarity and responsible diplomacy.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the controversy arose from Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's remarks concerning alleged Israeli involvement in Network School. Lim Lip Eng highlighted that these remarks were made in the context of an ongoing investigation. The Prime Minister had stated that Israeli nationals involved in Network School would be deported if their presence was confirmed. Lim stressed that any action taken should be based on verified facts and applicable immigration laws, rather than religion or ethnicity.
Lim further explained that the revocation of Network School's business licence was due to regulatory breaches related to licensing conditions and premises use, and should not be interpreted as evidence of the presence of Israeli nationals. He also addressed concerns raised by eight members of the US House of Representatives, noting that their letter to the US Secretary of State was a request rather than an official decision by the US government.
He urged Wisma Putra to engage with the US administration and the concerned lawmakers to explain the context of the Prime Minister's remarks and provide verified findings through appropriate diplomatic channels. Lim concluded that a measured and factual response would best protect Malaysia's principles, sovereignty, and international standing.