MELAKA: With the court case now behind him, Manipal University College Malaysia (MUCM) vice-chancellor Prof Dr G. Jayakumar says he is moving forward with renewed resolve to strengthen the institution and continue placing students at the heart of its mission.
When interviewed after the Sessions Court in Ayer Keroh here acquitted him on Monday (March 9) of a charge under Section 417 of the Penal Code for cheating, the 63-year-old said the decision had brought both relief and vindication.
“I felt vindicated after the truth had finally come to light,” he said.
Prof Dr Jayakumar said his attention would now return fully to advancing MUCM’s academic standing and safeguarding the welfare of its students, adding that he remained committed to the university’s broader development agenda.
"My focus now is on bringing MUCM to greater heights and remaining steadfast in executing the university’s development agenda,” he said.
He described the episode as a draining one, but said the support he received throughout the ordeal had helped him endure it.
“It was an exhausting two months for me, but it is finally over.
"I thank everyone who had confidence in me and stood beside me throughout this time,” he said.
In January, Prof Dr Jayakumar claimed trial to a charge of deceiving the institution’s former vice-chancellor over the appointment of a chief consultant involving a RM20,000 payment.
On Monday, Judge Elesabet Paya Wan granted the acquittal after the prosecution accepted the defence’s submission that the essential elements of the offence had not been established, including the absence of evidence of dishonest intent or personal gain.
Prof Dr Jayakumar also expressed appreciation to MUCM for allowing him to continue discharging his duties as vice-chancellor while the case was ongoing.
“I am grateful that the judicial process has concluded and that I have always acted with integrity.
"I am pleased that the court’s decision affirms this,” he said.
He said his priority remained unchanged despite the setback.
“My focus will remain on advancing MUCM’s academic mission and supporting our students and faculty,” he said.
MUCM is a private higher education institution offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, particularly in healthcare-related disciplines.
