KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 27 — Former minister Tan Sri Rais Yatim has proposed a special subject on Malaysia’s royal institution be taught in schools to allow students to learn, appreciate and respect the system.
Rais, who is now socio-cultural adviser to Putrajaya, said this would also put a stop to some Malaysians questioning and insulting the rulers of this country, Malay daily Sinar Harian reported today.
“Seeing as there is a situation (insulting the royal institution), I think it is time because such actions reflect on us (as a society).
“There has to be guidelines and proper education to curb such activities,” he was quoted as saying.
Rais said he has submitted his proposal on the matter to Education Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.
“Students in schools as well as universities must be given the opportunity to learn about the royal institution and the their values,” he added.
Rais stressed that any insults against royalty should not be tolerated, and cited neighbouring Thailand as an example of how stern action should be taken against those who dared do so.
Two Thai actors were recently handed two— and-a half years prison sentence for insulting the Thai monarchy during a theatre performance last year.
