What historical example does Mahathir cite against Dong Zong?

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Mahathir Cites Sekolah Wawasan Proposal as Historical Example Against Dong Zong

Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad pointed to the proposed concept of Sekolah Wawasan during his first tenure as prime minister as a historical example of Dong Zong's exclusionary stance. This educational model aimed to integrate students from national and vernacular schools into a shared learning environment, an initiative that faced opposition from Dong Zong.
Opposition to Sekolah Wawasan

The proposal for Sekolah Wawasan, intended to foster unity by bringing students from different school streams together, was actively opposed by Dong Zong. This objection stemmed from concerns that such integration would lead to the mixing of Malay and Chinese children within the same educational setting. Dr Mahathir characterised this viewpoint as "racist," questioning the rationale behind preventing students of different races from attending school together.
Dong Zong's Focus on a Single Community

Dr Mahathir argued that Dong Zong's historical actions and advocacy have consistently centred on the interests of the Chinese community, to the exclusion of broader Malaysian national interests. He asserted that the organisation has "never fought for Malaysians" but rather "only fought for one race in this country," highlighting a perceived singular focus on Chinese education.
Racist Thinking and National Unity

The prime minister elaborated on the perceived racist nature of Dong Zong's objection to Sekolah Wawasan, stating that the idea of bringing Malay, Chinese, and other children together in one school was "anathema" to the organisation. He questioned the underlying principle that would deem such a mixed assembly problematic, underscoring the importance of accommodating the feelings of all ethnic groups in a pluralistic society like Malaysia.

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What historical example does Mahathir cite against Dong Zong?

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