SIBU: Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing, and Local Government Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee has urged relevant agencies to reconsider the restriction on students participating in the Malaysian Red Crescent Society (MRCS) flag sale.
He said the restriction falls under the Children and Young Persons Employment Act 1966, which prohibits young persons from engaging in certain types of work, including street trading, public entertainment, and solicitation for fundraising purposes.
“I understand the intention of Parliament in enacting this law—to protect young people from being exploited for business-related trading or solicitation at a young age.
“But again, this is not about profit. This is fundraising for their NGO,” he said when met by reporters at the Malaysian Red Crescent Society (MRCS) Sibu branch annual flag sale today (Mar 22).
He stressed that fundraising for NGOs should not be considered work but rather an act of volunteerism.
“So I think our federal government should look into this by creating exceptions for programmes like this, especially when it involves fundraising for NGOs,” he added.
Tiang pointed out that MRCS has made significant contributions to nation-building, particularly in Sibu.
“Since I was young, I’ve seen how MRCS has been helping our community by educating the public on first aid and other essential skills. It has also nurtured many young leaders,” he said.
He added some state leaders had also participated in MRCS during their youth.
“So I think the federal government should amend the law to support youth organisations like the Red Crescent.
“In fact, when I say this, I say it on behalf of all youth organisations, including the Scouts and others.
“These organisations need laws that both protect them and allow them to carry out fundraising activities,” he added.
Meanwhile, MRCS Sibu Branch chairman Penghulu Chua Hiong Kee said they can currently only involve Form 6 students in their flag sale programme due to the restriction.
“We are currently facing a shortage of volunteers to participate in our programme. Therefore, I hope this matter can be considered,” he said.
