Following a protest by school security guards in Putrajaya yesterday, Education Minister Maszlee Malik said his ministry's door was always open to constructive suggestions.

"We are always open to suggestions for improvements either through discussions or in writing," he told Malaysiakini. 

"We believe in openness. Many issues can be resolved together."

Yesterday, a group representing school security guards held a demonstration at the Education Ministry over their low pay, long hours and the lack of job security because they were all on contract.

A Home Ministry circular, which Malaysiakini has sighted, had warned security companies not to allow their staff to join the protest. Maszlee did not respond to this allegation.

"We have received their complaint letter and we are studying the contents," he said.

In an immediate response, PSM central committee member S Arutchelvan, who brought the circular to light, said the Home Ministry's circular did not reflect the openness that Maszlee spoke of.

"They are obviously tried to sabotage our protest," he said. 

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