By Prof Dr Wahid Omar
On behalf of UTM (Universiti Teknologi Malaysia), I would like to express our utmost regret and deep remorse for the lack of sensitivity on the part of our lecturers teaching the Titas (Tamadun Islam Tamadun Asia – Asian and Islamic Civilisation) subject.
We are currently conducting a thorough investigation into this incident and due action will be taken as necessary. We are truly sorry for what has happened.
With regard to the specific slides shown on social media, the language used in the slides does not reflect the true content of the subject matter in question, and the slides used were not the MOOC (Massive Online Open Courses) slides endorsed by the Ministry of Higher Education for the Titas subject.
What was written on the slides does not reflect the true content and has been presented out of the full context.
UTM has its code of ethics as a guide to all academic staff which clearly stresses on the need to uphold true values and nobility of character in order to instil the right mindset and principles among staff and students, while encouraging respect for one another and inculcating understanding among diverse cultures, creeds and religions.
The university subscribes to these important values and every member of the university community should adhere to and strive to achieve this.
As a direct result of and to prevent a recurrence of this incident, UTM will ensure that our lecturers only use the slides for Titas that have been endorsed by the Ministry of Higher Education.
We will also engage experts of Asian Civilisation to provide input when needed.
At the same time, we will continuously remind our academics to be more vigilant in future and be more aware of the language and presentation of content on their teaching slides and modules so as not to touch on sensitivities of others.
We would like to emphasise that this is an isolated incident, and does not reflect the true values of UTM.
The university truly promotes understanding in celebrating diversity and we have testimony of the vibrant and dynamic activities we have on campus.
We will ensure that this incident will not recur, and we once again apologise for any hurt or displeasure we may have caused.
Prof Dr Wahid Omar is the vice-chancellor of UTM.
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