It is regrettable that the chairman of the board for University Putra Malaysian should suggest the resignation of the university's vice-chancellor Prof Dr Muhd Zohadie Bardaie simply for the latter writing a letter appealing to the minister to reconsider his (the minister's) decision to transfer a UPM academic programme to the Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia.

Can't an academician write a letter of appeal to his higher-up? What has become of our justice system?

I thought that the honorable chairman, Dr Zainal Arief, would have supported his vice- chancellor and helped to convince the minister that his decision would not be in the nation's best interest. But being a former civil servant, I really didn't think Zainal would.

What are the reasons for moving UPM's aeronautical engineering programe over to UKM?

Is it because UPM could not deliver the course effectively? Is it because the Malaysian Institute of Engineers Malaysia (MIEM) is unable to recognise the degree if it is done at UPM, a university for agriculture?

I think the answer to both questions is a resounding 'no'. UPM has come a long way in terms of research and teaching it is at the top of the list of institutions of higher learning when it comes to Intensification of Research in Priority Areas (Irpa) grants awarded (even better than UM). Its post-graduate programme is also world-class, having external examiners from overseas to read its PhD theses.

So what is the real problem? Until the minister comes out with a logical, rational explanation for the move, the public can only speculate that the minister is playing politics by using his power and might to bully a popular vice-chancellor. Maybe after this, he will put someone who is an active Umno member as vice-chancellor! The trend is clear for all to see - it has happened elsewhere so why not at UPM?

It is not simple to get approval to conduct a degree programme in Malaysia. The proposal has to pass through several levels before it becomes reality. First (after months of groundwork), the entire Engineering Faculty staff has to approve the working paper (written according to a certain format).

Then the University's Board of Studies followed by the Senate, then the University Board of Management before it goes to the Higher Education Ministry. That is not all - the Public Services Department then has to 'recognise' the programme for placement in the civil service. Normally it takes two or more years to get the final green light.

So I can understand why UPM is reluctant to let go of the programme to UKM. It is sheer hard work to propose a new programme. I suspect the UKM has lobbied the minister to transfer the ready-made programme.

If this is true, I feel pity UKM vice-chancellor for having to stoop so low. But correct me if I am wrong - could it be that the minister has some personal grudge against the UPM? God knows best what's in the hearts of men.