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Directing Students to Avoid Anwar Ibrahim-A Dumb and Unethical Move. Media Statement by M. Kula Segaran (Ipoh, Tuesday ): In the recent session of Parliament I had asked the Minister for Higher Education to state why his Minster ordered government scholarship students at Oxford University not to meet up with the former Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim during the latter’s two months stay at the university in England. The Minister gave the usual standard reply that because it costs about RM 500,00 per government scholarship student, the government wants these students to concentrate on their studies, it is most shocking and utterly disappointing that the Minister for Higher Education should exhibit his extremely narrow and shallow view of education and higher education. This is a most unsatisfactory and unimaginative answer. It is also dishonest. Of course the government scholarship holders – and for that matter, all other students – should concentrate on their studies, it is most shocking and utterly disappointing that the Minister for Higher Education should exhibit his extremely narrow and shallow view of education and higher education. Who says that our government scholarship students will not widen their intellectual and educational horizons by listening to, or exchanging views with Anwar Ibrahim, although he is no more in the government? The Minister fails himself and the country by indulging in such a partisan view of education and political activities. He should be ashamed of himself. No wonder our education is of such a poor quality, when our tertiary students are treated like primary school pupils, not being allowed to think for themselves. Who says all government scholarship students who were to meet up with Anwar Ibrahim would automatically become anti- government? When will the Minister and his government going to realize that our students can think and decide for themselves? And that the exchange of political views is part and parcel of education. It is dishonest reply because the same government scholarship holders are not barred from meeting UMNO or Barisan Nasional politicians. When is the government going to grow up and enter the 21 st century? When will it cease being so dumb and unethical? (31/5/2005) * M. Kula Segaran, MP for Ipoh Barat and DAP National Vice Chairman