KUALA LUMPUR: There will be no compromises for sexual harassment offenders at Universiti Malaya (UM), says Prof Datuk Seri Dr Noor Azuan Abu Osman.
The university's vice-chancellor said that UM takes the issue of sexual harassment seriously and will ensure swift action against offenders, regardless of their position or status.
"We at the university have been informed of the case involving a professor currently being investigated by the police. We are prepared to provide our full cooperation to the authorities to assist in the investigation,” he said.
He added that an internal investigation committee would be established, adding that it requires strong evidence to begin.
Prof Noor Azuan then said that anyone with information – especially victims – should come forward to help resolve the issue immediately.
"As a public institution, UM will not compromise in safeguarding the safety and welfare of students, staff, and the entire campus community,” he said.
“However, we must comply with all laws and regulations when addressing each complaint to ensure that it is handled fairly and equitably. We will continue to ensure that the university environment remains safe, fair, and conducive for all," he added.
Prof Noor Azuan then said that their commitment to monitoring "Exploitation, Abuse, and Sexual Harassment" at UM includes the use of a QR Code to address such issues.
"This code has been revised and improved with input from various parties, including student and union representatives, NGOs related to anti-sexual harassment, the police, and lawyers.
We have a whistleblower policy to encourage reporting of any inappropriate behaviour, including sexual harassment," he said.
He added that UM, through its Student Affairs Department and the Integrity Unit, has implemented various programmes and activities to raise awareness on this issue.
UM provides the same platform on their website (https://umintegrity.um.edu.my) to help victims come forward and report incidents of sexual harassment so that action can be taken accordingly.
