University of Malaya must uphold the right to freedom of expression and cease its investigation immediately against student organisation the University of Malaya Association of New Youth (UMANY). Amnesty International Malaysia Executive Director, Katrina Jorene Maliamauv said:
“Academic institutions should provide a safe space for students to hold different opinions and ideas freely without fear of censure or interference. This potentially creates a chilling effect, with student minimising public debate by self-censorship in an already restrictive environment.”
“We also condemn hateful and prejudiced comments on social media targeted against students associated with UMANY. This sort of targeted harassment could negatively affect their mental well-being and potentially result in physical harm against them,” continued Katrina.
Amnesty International Malaysia urges University of Malaya’s administration urges stop investigations against UMANY and all student activists, and respect their right to freedom of expression.