KUALA LUMPUR: Students should not allow their political opinions to compromise their studies.
Reminding this to students at her alma mater, Universiti Malaya tonight, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said that while students were free to formulate and develop their opinions and political stands while studying, they should always abide by the law and steer clear of political activities, much less street demonstrations.
"It is not wrong for you to have an opinion. You can agree with the government or you don't have to agree. You can choose to like me and you can choose not to like me. It is a free country and you are free to think what you want," Azalina said addressing students off-the-cuff in between sharing memories of her time at the university.
"But while you are students, you have to be selfish first. Your duty is to study and to graduate from university. Not compromise that by getting involved in politics."
She was referring to the Tangkap MO1 rally on Saturday, which involved students.
Azalina, who graduated with a degree in law from the university in 1988, last night joined alumni and freshmen in a dinner and get-together, while acting as judge for a talent show by students in her first return to the campus since graduation.
She said her own interest in politics grew into an ambition while she was a student, but she did not get involved in politics until she had completed her studies.
"You can read about it, understand it, take an interest in what is going on and develop your opinion," said Azalina.
"It is against the law for you to be involved in all those street protests, more so illegal politics. So why compromise it? Why risk getting yourself arrested just because you want to show that you don't agree with something?"
She encouraged students to take an interest in politics, but reminded them not to be influenced by outside forces that dragged them into turmoil.
"Whatever happens outside is none of your business while you are in university. Your business is to graduate first. Then go find a job and get into politics seriously if you want.
"You can join the government or join the opposition, even challenge me in my constituency if you like. The future is yours, this whole country is yours. But graduate first."