KUALA LUMPUR – The Higher Education Ministry has urged Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) to reassess its teaching methods, particularly in light of a recent controversy where students were seen wearing costumes resembling members of a racial extremist group.
Minister Datuk Seri Zambry Abdul Kadir emphasised that pedagogy in higher education must be mindful of broader issues and uphold certain sensitivities.
“Pedagogy in learning must consider related matters and maintain certain sensitivities,” he said during a press conference at the fifth instalment of the Malaysia Madani Scholars Forum (FIM) in Petaling Jaya last night.
Zambry also stressed that it is not necessary for the ministry to intervene in every controversy involving students or institutions of higher learning.
“I believe it is immature to demand that we intervene in everything. However, what’s most important is that when an issue like this arises, UiTM has the responsibility to explain it to the public,” he said.
He noted that while various opinions have surfaced, UiTM has since provided clarification and outlined the measures it plans to take.
“Perhaps several opinions have been voiced. UiTM has already clarified the actual situation and outlined the steps they will take,” he added.
In a statement on Wednesday, UiTM explained that the students involved were from its Foundation Centre and had worn the Ku Klux Klan (KKK)-like costumes as part of a presentation for the Contemporary Global and Legal Issues course.
According to the university, the assignment was intended to foster critical thinking and raise awareness of international human rights concerns. The faculty involved had ensured that the session was conducted within academic boundaries and did not touch on religious, cultural, or racial sensitivities.
Meanwhile, police confirmed that a report had been lodged on Wednesday concerning the viral video showing UiTM Dengkil students in the controversial attire. – April 19, 2025