Pakatan Rakyat’s leadership council said it is not seeking a ban on the Interlok novel, but is questioning its use as part of the school curriculum.

After the council’s meeting in Parliament today, PKR de facto leader Anwar Ibrahim announced that further discussions will be held on the matter on Thursday.

NONE "As a novel, we don't think there should be ban or restrictions. But we will discuss in reference to it's use as a text book. We must take into consideration the sensitivities of all races," he said.

Anwar said that during the Thursday meeting, the coalition will devise a formal response on the matter which has been brewing in recent weeks.

"We, including PKR representatives, will discuss this with all those who have expressed concern about the book which allegedly insults the Indian community,” he said.

Ethnic Indian academics and politicians are arguing that the contents of the book are highly disparaging towards the Indian community and must be withdrawn.

However, the education ministry has refused to do so. It has instead organised a series of discussions with the intention of coming to a consensus to amend contents of the book.

Meeting on lottery ban

In the same vein, Anwar also announced that another meeting will also be scheduled soon to discuss Kelantan’s ban on the sale of lottery tickets.

"Tthe gambling and lottery ticket issue is being played up by certain parties. We must stressed the need to leave such matters to the state government," said Anwar.

azlan He said that it was imperative of Pakatan ruled state governments to discuss major policy decisions with the coalition’s top leaders.

He explained that the Kelantan Menteri Besar Nik Aziz Nik Mat has agreed to a meeting sometime before Thursday this week, either in Kedah or his state.

A delegation comprising DAP Youth chief Anthony Loke, PKR veep Tian Chua, information chief Mohamad Nur Manuty and PAS secretary-general Mustafa Ali will be part of the discussions.

"This will give a clearer picture and avoid misunderstandings, especially when the leadership must be careful to not make statements that can be misconstrued," concluded the opposition leader.

MCA has been on a warpath against PAS-ruled Kelantan since the raid on two stationary shops over the selling of lottery tickets.

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