Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Effendi Norwawi did not get a single cent from the government during his 17 month-long service as special education envoy with ministerial status.

"In discharging his duties, Effendi ( left ) never received any remuneration and he paid for his overseas visits, his office and administration expenses," said Higher Education Minister Mustapa Mohamed in a parliamentary written reply.

"He did it as a service to the nation," he added in the reply to Opposition Leader Lim Kit Siang (DAP-Ipoh Timor)

He said Effendi's service was needed as the Higher Education Ministry was still new then and his expertise helped promote local varsities abroad and initiate cooperation with tertiary institutions there.

A copy of the reply dated March 15 was obtained by malaysiakini today.

In the Dewan Rakyat this afternoon, Mustapa refuted the claim that political influence was rampant in local universities, ranging from the selection of vice-chancellors to promotion of academicians.

"The promotion of lecturers are based on merit, I deny there is any political influence. The accusation was made with bad intention," he said in his ministerial winding-up on questions raised during the debate on the royal address.

Independent processs

On the proposal to set up an independent committee to appoint vice-chancellors, Mustapa ( right ) said the selection process is done independently with consultation from stakeholders.

At this juncture, Lim interjected and said there were examples of vice-chancellors being appointed due to their political connections.

Salahuddin Ayub (PAS-Kubang Kerian) asked why ex-national civic bureau head Nordin Kardi was appointed as Universiti Utara Malaysia's vice-chancellor. He added that many had questioned his appointment.

The bureau is tasked to inculcate patriotism among the rakyat, namely civil servants but some have branded it as a platform to promote 'government propaganda'.

"The selection of vice-chancellors should be based on their track record in the universities and academic excellence," stressed the PAS leader.

Responding, the minister said only the best are chosen.

Mustapa said his ministry will also look into the suggestion to extend the retirement age for lecturers, which is present at 56.

On the restrictive Universities and University Colleges Act, he reiterated that the act will not be repealed but be amended to allow more conducive learning environment.