The senior school administrator of SK St Thomas in Kuching has denied caning a 10-year-old boy for bringing fried rice and pork sausages to school during recess.

NONE Deputy Education Minister Wee Ka Siong ( left ) said according to a report submitted by state education department, the school administrator stated this was not the reason behind the caning.

"From the investigation on Oct 15 the boy did bring non-halal food to the school - fried rice with pork sausages - (but) the senior school administrator denied caning the boy for it," said Wee.

At a press conference in the Parliament lobby today, the deputy minister also disclaimed that there was a ban on students bringing non-halal food.

"However, the school often reminds students to be tolerant with other students who do bring non-halal food," he said.

Malaysiakini had reported Angela Jabing, the mother of the 10 year old was angered over the caning of her son but was asked not to make a big deal over the incident.

NONE According to Jabing (right in photo ), who met with the school administrator on Oct 19, he said: "Jangan besar-besarkan hal, kerana ini isu yang cukup sensitive di kalangan orang-orang Islam (Don't blow up this matter as it is a very sensitive issue among Muslims)."

Wee added that since there were two conflicting reports, the ministry had instructed for a thorough investigation on the matter.

"I also hope the parent can come out and help with the investigation," said Wee.

Hinting at the Jabing's press conference last week held together with Sarawak PKR Wanita, Wee implied that the case might be "politically motivated".

"I understand that the parent has a political background."

He also said the state minister will visit the ground to solve the issue.