KUALA LUMPUR: Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP) has launched an investigation into an examination paper for its ethnic course which described controversial preacher Dr Zakir Naik as an “icon” of the Islamic world.
The university, in a statement today, said an official statement would be issued once all information had been collected.
“As a university with students from all racial and cultural backgrounds, UniMAP views this matter seriously and any feedback received will prioritise the aspect of unity and toleration among races.
“The university will also review its exam question vetting process for the course to ensure lecturers are more aware towards ethnic and religious sensitivities.”
UniMAP also called on all parties to stop any form of provocation that could lead to disharmony, and to make room for the university to conduct an in-depth investigation.
The university came under fire after a question in the bilingual examination paper touched on Zakir.
The question read: “Zakir Naik is one of the icons of the Islamic world, he is very active in spreading true Islam and following the Quran and Sunnah of Rasulullah S.A.W. He is able to reason and to answer every question that is asked to him. However, in Malaysia, he is no longer allowed to deliver his preaching. In your opinion, as a Malaysian, why does this happen?”
The multiple-choice question allowed students to choose several answers, and more than one answer could be chosen.
Among the answers provided were: (1) Malaysians do not bother; (2 Sensitive Malaysians feel threatened for no reason; (3) Malaysians are normally submissive without any reason; and (4) Malaysians are ignorant about their own religion.