Four Universiti Sains Malaysia students initially barred from taking their semester examination which began today, received a 'last-minute' reprieve when they were allowed to sit for it on "humanitarian ground".

A source said the four received a letter from the USM authorities last Friday informing them that because their appeal to the Education Ministry against their suspension was still in process, they would be allowed to take their examination.

USM deputy vice-chancellor Assoc Prof Dr Jamaludin Mohaiadin, who is in charge of student affairs, confirmed that this change-of-heart when contacted by malaysiakini today.

When asked on the students' appeal against the suspension, however, Jamaludin said, "I won't comment further as I'm still waiting for a formal reply from the Education Ministry."

Last month, USM suspended Lee Yen Ting, Choo Chon Kai, Loke Chee Hoe and Fatin Norsuhana Abdul Khalid for one semester for their involvement in 'anti-establishment activities'.

Lee, who is also USM Chinese Language Society president, was found guilty of participating in an illegal gathering protesting the Vision school concept in November 2000, together with Loke and Fatin.

Choo was found 'guilty' of selling anti-Internal Security Act badges in campus last year.

Lee, Choo and Loke are final-year students who will be graduating this year should they pass this semester examination.

The trio submitted their appeal against the suspension to the Education Ministry two weeks ago.

Wise decision

When contacted, human rights group Suaram co-ordinator Yap Swee Seng said USM made a wise decision in allowing the students to sit for their examinations.

However he regretted that the decision only came three days ago.

"The students have only three days to prepare themselves. For the past two to three weeks, they can't really concentrate [on their studies]," Yap said.

He reiterated that it is not appropriate for USM to suspend the students while they are still appealing against the decision and that due process must take place before punishment is implemented.

"We are hoping that USM will drop all the charges and rulings made against the students," he said.