A student group claimed that the guidebook used for registering associations or societies in Universiti Malaya (UM) was too rigid.

Known as ' maklumat mahasiswa ', the guidebook warned students against setting up organisations that would harm the peace and harmony in campus.

According to the guidebook, distributed to new students during the orientation period, the deputy vice-chancellor could reject the application for such organsiations.

Commenting on this, Solidariti Mahasiswa Malaysia (SMM) president Ahmad Rifauddin noted that it can be used to curb dissent.

"SMM is not allowed to be registered in UM because our ideas and label reflect a strong sense of political participation," he said when contacted.

He added that although the guidebook stipulated certain rules, the ultimate decision was with the deputy chancellor and this was the problem.

SMM is viewed as an 'anti-establishment' group.

Good for students

Meanwhile, vice-president of the pro-establishment student council Shum Wai Hoe however defended the guidebook.

He said it was good that new students have a clear set of guidelines to follow should they want to set up an organisation.

"In the guidebook, the powers of the president, secretary, treasurer and other committee members are clearly defined," he added when contacted.

The guidebook states that students who want to form an association or society, must fill up an application form under section 49 of the UM's constitution. The form is then submitted to the student executive council.

Those who sit on the executive council are appointed by the deputy vice-chancellor.

Before an application is approved, the deputy vice-chancellor will check into the backgrounds of the students and their motives for setting up a particular organisation.