Clips of UiTM Dengkil students in white robes and pointed hoods mimicking the KKK went viral on social media earlier this week, sparking outrage and widespread condemnation online.

When asked to comment on the controversy, Zambry said he should not be expected to intervene in every issue facing UiTM.

“It is UiTM’s responsibility to explain what actually happened and what they (the students) were doing, and they have done so,” he said after a forum organised by his ministry here today.

“They know best and what’s necessary. That’s why UiTM has already provided an explanation. I think the most important thing is the clarification from UiTM regarding the issue, because it happened there.

“In any case, I’ve asked them to look into it from a pedagogical aspect to make sure certain sensitivities are taken into account. It’s about a balance between sensitivities and allowing students to learn.”

The KKK, a white supremacy group in the US, is notorious for its history of lynchings, violence and racist behaviour.

The university has defended the students, saying the activity was conducted within “an academic framework” and was part of an assignment on legal issues. UiTM also said it did not find the stunt religiously offensive.

Based on an assignment brief seen by FMT, the “social project” formed part of the Contemporary Global and Legal Issues subject taken by students in the university’s foundation law programme.

They were required to choose a topic from one of three categories: crimes against humanity, human rights and liberties, or environmental issues.