The Malaysia Youth & Students Democratic Movement (Dema) is concerned with the disciplinary actions taken against the students by Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) and Universiti Malaya (UM).

Two UMS students and four UM students will face disciplinary proceedings on Feb 21 and 24 for their participation in the Bersih 5 rally and for holding up placards during a 1MDB town hall meeting last year respectively.

We believe the freedom to assemble and freedom of expression are the cornerstones of Malaysia’s constitution and a democratic state. These principles must be inevitable respected by all the actors. More, it is crucial for institutions of higher learning to be the pioneer in safeguarding the democratic principles and encouraging the students to involve themselves in the democratic process, not only on the ballot papers but also direct involvement on the ground.

Ironically, students are being put at risk of disciplinary actions because of their participation in a public assembly and voicing against kleptocracy.

We strongly condemn UMS and UM’s decisions on their own students. Therefore, we urge the immediate withdrawal of disciplinary proceedings against the students. More, Dema urges the government to follow the Malaysian Human Rights Commission’s (Suhakam) urging for law reform for universities to take into consideration the fundamental rights of students. Dema will extend solidarity with the students.