Universiti Malaya (UM) has refuted an allegation that vice-chancellor Ghauth Jasmon practised cronyism in appointing two friends to high posts.

International and Corporate Relations Department director Kamila Ghazali, in reply Malaysiakini 's queries, said the appointments were based on merit and vast experience in their fields of expertise.

Padang Terap MP Mohd Nasir Zakaria had raised the matter in Parliament last week, claiming that the appointment of David Ngo Check Leng and David Asirvatham had not followed procedure.