Indera Mahkota MP Saifuddin Abdullah said he was appalled by the circular’s contents and language, arguing that universities should serve as guardians of knowledge and promote a culture of academic interaction.

He said the very “soul” of a university lies in academic freedom, which encompasses the freedom to think, teach, research, publish and share, including with the public.

“That is why we have the term ‘public intellectual’. Academics also serve as the conscience of the society.

“This circular does not respect these traits. It does not augur well for a university and academic excellence with soul,” he said in a statement to FMT.

Saifuddin, who also leads the PN education bureau, said he has raised his concerns with higher education minister Zambry Abdul Kadir and hopes that the issue will be addressed accordingly.

“He (Zambry) is a former academic. I believe he understands my concern.”

A copy of the UKM circular dated Oct 8 and issued by Zainudin Daud, who is performing the duties of the university’s registrar, is making the rounds on social media.

The circular mandates that civil servants, including statutory body officers, refrain from making statements that could undermine government policies or embarrass government entities.

Staff members were warned that violations could lead to disciplinary action.