Dr M: A convocation ceremony is not the right place to protest

KUALA LUMPUR: A convocation ceremony is not the right time nor place to voice dissent as it can lead to chaos, says Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.

The Prime Minister said that one can demonstrate – but in a proper manner at the right place.

Dr Mahathir was asked his opinion of the actions of Universiti Malaya student activist Wong Yan Ke, who displayed a placard on stage during his convocation ceremony calling for the resignation of UM vice-chancellor Datuk Abdul Rahim Hashim.

"We have certain procedures and regulations. We need to follow those rules, otherwise there will be chaos.

"They can demonstrate but there are other places to do that. Do not disturb a proper ceremony to show that you have certain views.

Dr Mahathir also said that they would not interfere with any university matters.

"They are free to make their decisions," he said.

He was speaking to the media after launching a community development fund introduced by NGO Yayasan Sejahtera on Oct 16 in conjunction with 2019 International Day for the Eradication Poverty Forum.

UM has lodged a police report against the civil engineering graduate who staged the protest.

The varsity also barred another student from attending a convocation ceremony, saying that there was an indication he would stage a protest which could threaten public order.