In a statement to FMT, Unimas said the line burst due to the large volume of rain gushing through the pipes following a thunderstorm on Oct 23.

“This resulted in minor damage to the ceiling, carpets and part of the furniture. All necessary safety measures were taken, and the problem was rectified at 6.30pm on the same day,” it said.

The library, known as the Centre for Academic Information Services (Cais), was set up in 1993 and moved to its present location in 2006.

The staff member who first informed FMT of the situation claimed the incident was symptomatic of the poor condition of facilities on campus, adding that it had happened before.

Speaking to FMT on condition of anonymity, the staff member alleged that there were also other issues with the university facilities and infrastructure including the lack of a sewage treatment plant, a leaking septic tank and the presence of rats.

Unimas acknowledged that a similar incident had happened seven years ago at a different part of the building. It added that following the latest incident, it was evaluating the piping system and looking into alternatives should a leak occur again.

It also said its sewage was treated in compliance with the law and evaluated by the Department of Environment. It said it had spent nearly RM10 million replacing its existing sewage plants.

On the allegedly leaking septic tank, it said it had received no official report on the matter. It added that the university had an online reporting system called “e-Adu” which allows anyone to lodge reports on maintenance issues, which will be looked into within three days.

Unimas said it also had a pest control contract which includes the control of rodent threats.

“Unimas is determined to provide the best facilities on campus, and we have always been very receptive to suggestions, ideas and constructive comments from all parties in our effort to make our campus a conducive place for everyone.”