Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob said staff of the community development department (Kemas) can also actively participate in politics from now on.

He then called for the education ministry to issue a circular on the matter as soon as possible.

“I have already brought this matter up to the Cabinet and decided that, in line with the democratic rights of the people, teachers should be allowed to get involved in politics.

“Previously, Kemas staff were allowed to get involved in politics. However, the Pakatan Harapan (PH) administration changed that and imposed a restriction on their participation.

“Hence, I am pleased to announce that Kemas staff are now allowed to get involved in politics,” he said at a press conference after attending a special meeting with the Kelantan Umno political bureau here today. Also present was state Umno chief Ahmad Jazlan Yaakub.

Earlier, he said there was a circular prohibiting teachers from getting involved in politics, with many issued warnings that action could be taken against them.

However, Ismail explained that the teachers and Kemas staff are still subject to the rules of their respective departments.

“Teachers, for example, while in politics, should not neglect their duties. Otherwise, disciplinary action can be taken. It is up to the department (to make an assessment),” he said.