GOMBAK: The International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) clarifies that the remarks made by a lecturer from the Abdul Hamid Abu Sulayman Kulliyyah of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Human Sciences are personal and do not represent the university's official stance, Sinar Harian reports.
In a statement issued by IIUM's Communication, Advocacy and Promotion Office Thursday (Nov 6), the university acknowledged a viral video on social media involving the academic, which has caused public confusion, the Malay language daily reported.
The university's management takes the matter seriously and regretted the lecturer's actions, which have once again affected academic integrity and the university's image as a reputable educational institution, despite previous warnings.
"IIUM stresses that the views and statements made by this academic are personal and do not reflect IIUM's official position.
"As a higher education institution, IIUM supports the principle of academic freedom, allowing scholars to share opinions, conduct research, and contribute to scholarly discourse," the statement read.
On Wednesday (Nov 5), the IIUM Academic Staff Association (ASA) urged the university's management to take immediate and appropriate action against an academic accused of violating ethical, professional, and academic integrity standards.
Although the academic in question was not directly named, the call followed another controversial statement involving a female lecturer from the university.
Previously, a video of the academic's lecture on YouTube claimed that ancient Roman shipbuilding techniques were believed to have been learned from Malay sailors.
IIUM also emphasised that all public statements should be made responsibly, based on academic accuracy, and aligned with industry standards.
Consequently, IIUM is reviewing the statements made by the academic internally according to existing procedures, and appropriate action will be taken based on the findings.
At the same time, IIUM reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to maintaining academic integrity and public trust in the university.
"IIUM believes that balancing academic freedom with scholarly responsibility is crucial to ensuring the credibility of the academic world," the statement added.
IIUM is committed to preserving the integrity and quality of education and scholarship among its academics.
The university also emphasised that academics have the significant responsibility of educating society with authentic and factual knowledge.
