COMMENT | Words, according to Confucius, must reflect reality and true actions. If they are not representative of the best deeds and thoughts, it is best that they are left unsaid.

Invariably, Confucianism, as Professor Tu Wei Ming of the Beijing University once affirmed, is one of "constant reflection"; indeed endless cultivation of the heart and mind (to get things right).

Universities, indeed, monasteries, are the best abodes to undertake such rigorous processes of self-rectification. But something must have gone horribly wrong in Georgetown University and the Wharton Business School.

Without delving into their long list of Malaysian alumni, which comprise the sons and daughters of Najib Abdul Razak and Larry Low (father of Low Taek Jho, ringmaster of 1MDB), one has to wonder how did they get their education so horribly wrong?

First and foremost, Georgetown University was originally established by the Jesuits. The latter has historically been rigorous right down to a fault when it comes to inner discipline. The creed of the Jesuits was to use the intellect to find God. Therefore, truth and all moral goodness.

Indeed, it was St Thomas Aquinas who once reasoned that...