KOTA KINABALU: Higher education institutions need to design and plan programmes carefully to prevent confusion, says Deputy Higher Education Minister Datuk Mustapha Sakmud.
“I am confident that if society adheres to this principle, we can reduce confusion and prejudice,” he added.
He was responding to recent claims that non-Muslim bumiputra students from Sabah and Sarawak were required to attend an Islamic seminar at a mosque in Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM).
The issue surfaced after lawyer-activist Siti Kasim raised concerns over apparent compulsory attendance at religious talks for non-Muslim students and the mandatory inclusion of Islamic-related subjects in universities.
Following the claims, the ministry initiated an inquiry and requested a report from UiTM on the matter, Mustapha said.
In a text message shared with The Star on Tuesday (Jan 14), Mustapha said UiTM clarified that the programme was part of its Self-Identity and Spiritual Camp.
The camp, held on Saturday (Jan 11), was part of the Kesatria Negara and Kesatria Kembara co-curricular courses aimed at fostering well-rounded student development in character, intellect and spirituality.
Of the 2,447 participating first-semester students, 34 were non-Muslims.
The message said that while Muslim students attended a lecture on funeral management at Masjid Al-Wathiqu Billah, non-Muslim students took part in a two-hour social ethics lecture.
The non-Muslim students were then provided afternoon tea before being dismissed.
UiTM stressed that the programme was organised with sensitivity to religious and cultural differences.
The use of nearby venues ensured efficient logistics and minimal disruption, it said.
However, it acknowledged that there was confusion caused by communication issues, and said steps would be taken to avoid such misunderstandings.
After sharing UiTM's statement, Mustapha said harmony among races and religions must be prioritised by seeking common ground while respecting differences.
“Although we come from various races and religions, the noble values shared among us are similar, especially social ethics.
"However, we must also respect each other's religious beliefs,” he added.
