Iium Dons Urge Action After Romans Learned Shipbuilding From Malays Remark

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The International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) Academic Staff Association (ASA) has urged the university’s management to take firm action against academics whose conduct or public statements breach ethical, professional, or academic standards.
Although ASA did not name anyone, its statement comes following Arabic language lecturer Solehah Yaacob’s claim that the Romans learned shipbuilding from the Malays.
A video of her remarks, made during a lecture, has since gone viral.
In its statement, ASA voiced concern over actions that undermine social responsibility or risk damaging the university’s reputation, stressing that such matters “should not be taken lightly.”
ADS“The credibility of our institution rests on the integrity, accountability, and professionalism of its academic staff.
“As a community founded on the pursuit of truth, justice, and ethical scholarship, all academics are expected to uphold the highest standards of academic integrity, intellectual honesty, professionalism, and moral conduct - both within and outside the campus environment.
IIUM Arabic language lecturer Solehah Yaacob“Therefore, ASA calls on the university management to take immediate and appropriate action in accordance with established rules and procedures against any member who may have breached these responsibilities,” the statement read.
Preserving public trust
Emphasising the need for firm action, the association said such measures are crucial to preserve public trust and confidence in IIUM as a respected centre of knowledge, integrity, and moral leadership.
“ASA stands firm in its commitment to defend the principles of academic freedom accompanied by responsibility, intellectual integrity, respect, and truth that form our shared identity.
“We are also committed to ensuring that the actions of a few individuals do not tarnish the collective integrity and dignity of the academic community,” it added.
This is not the first time Solehah has courted controversy.
Last year, the lecturer made headlines after suggesting that Prophet Muhammad’s wife, Siti Khadijah Khuwailid, might have originated from the Malay realm. - Mkini

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