KUALA KINABALU: The students organising an anti-corruption protest on New Year’s Eve here do not represent Universiti Malaya Sabah (UMS) or any of its entities, says the varsity.
It said that this includes UMS faculties, academies, centres, institutes, or staff.
In a statement Sunday (Dec 29), UMS advised the student group organising the rally to comply with the relevant laws and instructions from the authorities.
They said that this is for the wellbeing and safety of the students and to maintain public order.
“UMS provides a platform and channel for students to discuss current issues academically, giving importance to facts and rational and ethical discourse,” it said in the statement.
The varsity added that any ideas and suggestions towards the well-being of society should be conveyed tactfully, as students can contribute to social harmony through mature actions guided by ethics, rules, and laws.
UMS vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Kasim Mansor, meanwhile, urged students to focus on the upcoming final examinations.
He called on UMS students not to be involved in rallies that could disrupt public harmony and safety, especially for the students themselves.
UMS added that their community is always advised to uphold courtesy and morality, especially by showing respect in social interactions.
It was earlier reported in The Star on Dec 26 that a student movement group called Suara Mahasiswa from UMS planned an anti-corruption rally.
Another group, Gerakan Bangkit Sabahan, wants to back Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor through a gathering at the same location and time.
The rally organised by the student group is meant to take place at 2pm on New Year's Eve in front of Menara Kinabalu.
