“They don’t ask you to drink” – Malay Parents Defend Chinese School Events Sponsored by Beer Companies

A Chinese school in Selangor recently gained unexpected attention for receiving sponsorship from a beer company. The Ministry of Education clarified that they were investigating the matter and PAS also voiced out against receiving sponsorship from alcohol companies.

In a report by China Press, some Malay parents who send their kids to Chinese schools say there is nothing wrong with the school receiving sponsorships from a beer company.

“They were just sponsoring an event, and not asking you to drink the beer,” one of the parents said.

A mother whose kid is studying at a Chinese school in Selangor said she was not alarmed by the controversy over the display of the beer logo during the performance at a Chinese school.

“If the funds from beer companies are used to improve the school facilities, I have no problem with that.”

Another woman who identifies as Zarina said that she does not regret sending her daughter to a Chinese school in Ipoh because she puts the quality of education first.

“When she has mastered a 3rd language and adapted to the culture of vernacular schools, I’m sure she will have a bright future ahead.”

When it comes to receiving sponsorship from alcohol companies, Zarina said she has never cared for the controversy, with one condition.

“As long as the charity show sponsored by beer companies does not involve children and Muslims, I don’t see anything wrong with it.”

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Another parent also defended receiving funds from beer companies for Chinese schools simply because she had never seen any Chinese schools advertising beer products.

“It doesn’t matter to me. The funds raised from the charity show will be used for charity, and they’re not asking you to drink the beer.”

To those who studied in Chinese schools, what do you think of this?

Also read: “This is a country with rules” – Dr Akmal Criticises Anthony Loke for Defending Brewery Funds in School