He said in schools, lawmakers should be seen as the people’s representatives rather than those of political parties.

“As stated (in the application letter), they can’t campaign, bring flags and so on,” he told reporters at the Parliament lobby.

“During Barisan Nasional’s time, the opposition was usually prohibited from entering schools. (But) in the new Malaysia, we are allowing it as long as they follow procedures.”

He added that many lawmakers had submitted applications to their respective state education departments, which have been approved.

He encouraged them to follow the example of PAS, which yesterday submitted an application list of leaders who were interested in entering school premises.

“So the rumours spread about me not allowing opposition leaders to enter schools are not true,” he added.

“We hope more apply, and it will be better if they do so like PAS, by submitting an application list.”

Last week, Maszlee said in the Dewan Rakyat that opposition MPs who wish to enter government school premises must first obtain permission from the ministry through the state education department directors.

His statement drew criticism from various quarters, including Pakatan Harapan elected representatives who said MPs from the opposition should be given due respect and allowed to enter school grounds.