MOVE would like to draw attention to the recent allegations and undue pressures impressed upon our fellow academic Professor Abdul Aziz Bari.
We are concerned and troubled by the negative remarks and personal attacks towards Prof Abdul Aziz. He is well qualified to make his stand clear over matters within his field of expertise. Threats and personal attacks are inappropriate and unprofessional. If anyone disagrees with him, they should be engaging him in a rational and professional discourse.
As an academic renowned for his contribution to the academia, Prof Aziz has the right to express his professional views freely and without prejudice as upheld by the notion of academic freedom. Academic freedom is a basic right of every academic, and must be respected and preserved.
The various principles of academic rights and academic freedom are enshrined in a UNESCO document, “Recommendations Concerning the Status of Higher Education Teaching Personnel”, which was conceded by the UNESCO General Assembly on the 11th of November 1997; among others, Article 26 and 27 have stated clearly that academics’ freedom involves “the right to contribute to social change through freely expressing their opinion of state policies and of policies affecting higher education”. It further emphasizes “they should not suffer any penalties simply because of the exercise of such rights”. The recent provocative actions directed towards Prof Aziz shows a clear violation of the said articles.
MOVE/GERAK once again invites all concerned to reflect on the basics of academic rights and freedom. As we envision Malaysia to be a developed nation, may this nation be not left behind in its fundamentals of upholding the sovereignty of academic institutions and that of academic freedom. Let us be hopeful to shape a country that provides world class education; excellent in all its ways, yet has not sacrificed its soul to get there. All stakeholders must be in compliance with the Recommendation for Malaysia to be a hub for higher education on par with world class universities.
20 October 2011
ReplyDeletePRESS STATEMENT REGARDING PROFESSOR AZIZ BARI
The University of Malaya Academic Staff Union (PKAUM) wishes to record our objection to the recent actions being taken against Professor Aziz Bari of the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM).
Professor Aziz is currently being investigated under the Sedition Act for statements he made regarding the Sultan of Selangor in an online news website. It has also been reported that he has been asked for a show cause letter from the authorities of IIUM regarding his statements.
PKAUM is concerned that this investigation and the action taken by IIUM is a gross violation of Professor Aziz’s academic freedom as well as his general right to expression.
From our understanding of the Sedition Act, a criticism of a Ruler is valid if it is intended to constructively show that the Ruler has erred. In the case of Professor Aziz, what he has done is merely to suggest that a Ruler has acted beyond his Constitutional bounds. This is a legitimate comment with no statement, direct or implied, made to incite hatred against the Ruler.
As an academic Professor Aziz will be asked to make comments in his field. It can be argued that it is his duty to use his expertise to enlighten the public in current issues related to his field. He or any other academic must have the freedom to do so.
These actions taken by the government and by IIUM will instil fear in the academic community. It is an indication that there is no academic freedom in Malaysia and when there is no academic freedom it is impossible for any development in our nation’s intellectual capacity.
In the words of Justice Earl Warren:
"To impose any straightjacket upon the intellectual leaders in our colleges and universities would imperil the future of the nation."
Therefore, in the interest of academic freedom specifically and the freedom of expression generally PKAUM sincerely requests:
1.That all investigations against Professor Aziz Bari under the Sedition Act be stopped.
2.That all action taken against Professor Aziz Bari by IIUM be stopped
3.That due to the vast potential of abuse against fundamental freedoms of expression that it carries, the Sedition Act be repealed.
Sincerely
Azmi Sharom
President PKAUM
Education International, the global union federation representing more than 30 million teachers and education workers, strongly condemns the suspension of Prof. Aziz Bari of the International Islamic University of Malaysia.
ReplyDeleteThis action is reportedly in retaliation for comments he made concerning the recent decree of the Sultan of the state of Selangor on the controversial raids of the Damansara Utama Methodist Church.
The suspension of Dr. Aziz Bari is a clear violation of fundamental principles of academic freedom and freedom of speech as guaranteed in both international law and in the Malaysian Constitution.
The right of academics to engage in intellectual discourse, public debate and criticism, no matter how controversial, is a founding principle of all modern universities and indeed of all democratic societies. The suspension of Prof. Aziz Bari by the International Islamic University of Malaysia must not be tolerated by any nation that subscribes to democratic principles and human rights.
We demand that this unjustified suspension be lifted immediately.
Selamat Berjuang,
Education International
http://www.ei-ie.org
Education International
Internationale de l'Éducation
Internacional de la Educación
Head Office | 5 bd du Roi Albert II | 1210 Brussels | BELGIUM
Tel.: +32 (2) 2240611 | Fax: +32 2 224 06 06 | http://www.ei-ie.org
Lawyers For Liberty strongly condemns the suspension of Prof Aziz Bari’s duty as professor of constitutional law at the International Islamic University of Malaysia regarding his comments on the scope and limitations of constitutional powers of the King.
ReplyDeleteThis is clearly a denial of his basic right to freedom of speech guaranteed under Article 10 of the Federal Constitution and the principles of academic freedom enshrined in free speech.
The right to intellectual discourse, debate and articulation is an indivisible part of academic development and excellence.
This suspension will certainly curtail world-class academic research and thought-provoking discussions, which Malaysian universities badly need to regain past glory.
Intellectualism, research excellence and academic freedom are pre-requisites for innovation and creativity to thrive, crucial for Malaysia to successfully transform itself into a developed nation that fully subscribes to democratic principles and human rights.
This suspension is a mockery of the Najib administration’s so-called ‘Greater Reforms’ to make Malaysia a more democratic and liberalised nation. This action proves that Najib’s reforms are insincere, superficial and dishonest but intended to solely fish for votes with the upcoming general election.
We demand that this unjustified suspension be lifted immediately while calling upon MCMC not to step beyond its boundaries. We also urge the police to immediately cease harassing Prof Aziz Bari with investigations under the draconian Sedition Act
Aliran is outraged by the reported suspension of the constitutional law expert, Professor Abdul Aziz Bari, of the International Islamic University of Malaysia (IIUM).
ReplyDeleteHis suspension comes in the wake of his publicly expressed opinion regarding the recent decree by the Sultan of Selangor over the controversial Jais raid on the Damansara Utama Methodist Church.
Many Malaysians share his opinion and look up to him as a brave academic who did not betray his conscience in expressing an honest opinion without fear or favour. This intellectual freedom of expression must be the hallmark of an institution of higher learning.
It is rare individuals like him who inspire students to speak the truth and defend what is right. He is an asset to IIUM.
The action taken by the university against the learned professor is baffling. The university is guilty of committing a serious travesty of justice as its action amounts to a denial of the right of academics to offer their expert opinions on matters that they specialises in and are concerned about.
It is expected of the professor to share his knowledge and expertise with the rest of us. That is the primary purpose in recruiting the best lecturers to teach and mould our youngsters to be responsible citizens.
If anyone disagrees with his view, he or she should do it intellectually and in a civilised manner to enhance an understanding of the issue at hand for both the academic fraternity and the larger community.
A sledgehammer such as the Sedition Act should not be used to suppress healthy discussion.
It has not been proven that his views are invalid and without merit. Malaysians should be told why his views are wrong. We should indeed start a debate to discuss this issue in a civilised manner as befitting a civil society.
Equally important, the university’s action makes a mockery of the notion of intellectual freedom and integrity that a university worth its salt is supposed to promote and protect. If this important value is not protected and guarded, what is the worth of a university?
Besides, the measure of an intellectually vibrant institution of higher learning is recognised and honoured when there are open discussions, debates and dissenting opinions. The prevalence of a lacklustre follow-me mentality – symptomatic of the larger political and feudalistic culture – will be the death knell of a university.
Aliran calls upon the IIUM authorities to lift the professor’s suspension immediately and cease all other similar actions that would only smear and sully the university’s academic reputation.
Suara Rakyat Malaysia (Suaram) condemns the suspension of Universiti Islam Antarabangsa (UIA) law professor Abdul Aziz Bari from his lecturing duties over his comments, relating to the royal decree on the Selangor Islamic Affairs Department raid of the Damansara Utama Methodist Church on Aug 3.
ReplyDeleteSuaram views that the suspension of Professor Aziz is politically motivated and a violation of freedom of expression aimed purely to victimise him of his academic career. Suaram views this development as a serious concern to the furtherance of human rights in Malaysia as the incident reflects on the lack of freedom and independence by academics in expressing their view and expert opinions without prejudice and fear.
“The Prime Minister on Sept 15, had made a public statement on human rights reforms and shared that it is his vision that Malaysia aspires to the ranks of ‘developed nations but the events in place runs contrary to his statement as his call for reform did not reveal any significance changes if not for negative development’. It simply remains as an empty rhetoric and lacks in will and credibility.
Suaram further comments that as an academic well-known for his views and opinions on Constitutional matters, Prof Aziz would naturally be expected to comment on this issue and in accordance with his professional obligations. If academics are subjected to disciplinary action for their professional views and opinions, then this violation impedes seriously on the development of the nation and democratic processes of the nation.
Suaram would like to state firmly that all professional views and opinions made in the interest of public must be treated as a qualified statement and be protected as a privilege statement. Such statements must at all-time be respected and confined to the academic and public scrutiny and not be treated as seditious or offensive by way of law and disciplinary actions.
Suaram also calls on the government of Malaysia to abolish the Sedition Act and the Aku Janji agreements and respect the academic freedom and the freedom of expression in Malaysia. Finally, Suaram calls on the UIA management to drop all charges against Prof Aziz Bari
Lawyers For Liberty strongly condemns the suspension of Prof Aziz Bari’s duty as professor of constitutional law at the International Islamic University of Malaysia regarding his comments on the scope and limitations of constitutional powers of the King.
ReplyDeleteThis is clearly a denial of his basic right to freedom of speech guaranteed under Article 10 of the Federal Constitution and the principles of academic freedom enshrined in free speech.
The right to intellectual discourse, debate and articulation is an indivisible part of academic development and excellence.
This suspension will certainly curtail world-class academic research and thought-provoking discussions, which Malaysian universities badly need to regain past glory.
Intellectualism, research excellence and academic freedom are pre-requisites for innovation and creativity to thrive, crucial for Malaysia to successfully transform itself into a developed nation that fully subscribes to democratic principles and human rights.
This suspension is a mockery of the Najib administration’s so-called ‘Greater Reforms’ to make Malaysia a more democratic and liberalised nation. This action proves that Najib’s reforms are insincere, superficial and dishonest but intended to solely fish for votes with the upcoming general election.
We demand that this unjustified suspension be lifted immediately while calling upon MCMC not to step beyond its boundaries. We also urge the police to immediately cease harassing Prof Aziz Bari with investigations under the draconian Sedition Act.
Stop The Intimidation Of Dr Abdul Aziz Bari
ReplyDeleteBy Ratina Osman, Sisters in Islam
Sisters in Islam (SIS) is appalled at the current targeting of Prof Dr Abdul Aziz Bari by many sectors, including the police force and the International Islamic University of Malaysia (UIA).
As an academic whose interest lies in Constitutional matters and Islamic policies, Aziz acted within his professional bounds when he commented on the fallout from the Selangor Islamic Religious Department (JAIS)'s raid on the Damansara Utama Methodist Church on 3 August.
While some may take issue with Aziz's analysis, they should engage and challenge his views via civil, public discussions instead of intimidating him. To accuse him of treason (derhaka) when he was critiquing the monarchy's exercise of its Constitutional powers is unjust and in breach of Islamic adab.
After all, SIS is no stranger to intimidation by state authorities, political parties and non-governmental organisations when we comment on issues of public interest.
Therefore, we are concerned at the way Aziz is now being treated, such as being investigated under the Sedition Act and suspended by the UIA.
SIS is thus worried at the systematic demonising and shutting down of diverse voices wanting to discuss matters of public interest related to Islamic policies and laws in Malaysia.
We hope that various parties will show mercy and compassion towards Aziz and call for the harassment on him to stop.
PRESS STATEMENT
ReplyDeleteOctober 21, 2011
ILMUAN would like to draw an attention to the recent allegations and undue pressures impressed upon our fellow academic Professor Dr. Abdul Aziz Bari.
ILMUAN are very concern over the negative remarks by certain parties toward Prof. Dr. Abdul Aziz Bari who speaks on his capacity as Law Professor.
ILMUAN are very concerned and troubled by the negative remarks and personal attacks towards Prof Abdul Aziz. He is well qualified to make his stand clear over matters within his field of expertise. Threats and personal attacks are inappropriate and unprofessional. Those who are in disagreement with him should engage him in a rational and professional manner.
As an academician renowned for his contribution to the academia, Prof Dr. Aziz has the right to express his professional views freely and without prejudice as upheld by the notion of academic freedom. Academic freedom is a basic right of every academic, and must be respected and preserved.
The various principles of academic rights and academic freedom are enshrined in a UNESCO document, “Recommendations Concerning the Status of Higher Education Teaching Personnel”, which was conceded by the UNESCO General Assembly on the 11th of November 1997; among others, Article 26 and 27 have stated clearly that academics’ freedom involves
“the right to contribute to social change through freely expressing their opinion of state policies and of policies affecting higher education”. It further emphasizes “they should not suffer any penalties simply because of the exercise of such rights”.
The recent provocative actions directed towards Prof Aziz shows a clear violation of the said articles.
ILMUAN once again invites all concerned to reflect on the basics of academic rights and freedom. As we envision Malaysia to be a developed nation, may this nation be not left behind in its fundamentals of upholding the sovereignty of academic institutions and that of academic freedom. Let us be hopeful to shape a country that provides world class education; excellent in all its ways, yet has not sacrificed its soul to get there. Everybody must work together to educate Malaysian for Malaysia to be the hub for higher education at par with other world class universities.
Dr. Mohd Fuad Mohd Salleh
President
Ikatan Ilmuan Nasional (ILMUAN)
The Academic Staff of the International Islamic University Malaysia (ASA) express our support for Professor Aziz Bari who is observing his role as a murabbi (educator) and not just as a mualim (teacher) on matters related to his expertise, Malaysia Constitutional Law. We are aggrieved by the external interference in the country's education system that should be free and professional. Unscholarly threats and pressures placed upon Professor Aziz Bari would only hurt and degrade the status of IIUM as an international university as well as tarnish the image of Malaysia as a democractic country.Professor Aziz Bari is a qualified and well-respected scholar who gives scholarly and rational statements with regard to Malaysia Constitutional Law issues. Undermining a learned man goes against the spirit of Islam. The Quran says:
ReplyDelete“Is he who payeth adoration in the watches of the night, prostrate and standing, bewaring of the Hereafter and hoping for the mercy of his Lord, (to be accounted equal with a disbeliever)? Say (unto them, O Muhammad): Are those who know equal with those who know not? But only men of understanding will pay heed.” (Az-Zumar 39:9)
Anyone who disagrees with Professor Aziz Bari’s views should give him a platform to have an open discussion or debate. This would have upgraded the level of intellectuality in this country. Professor Aziz Bari should not be punished for stimulated responses he brought in the public because these responses mean people are thinking.
As an academic, Professor Aziz Bari has the right to express his academic findings and thoughts. This academic freedom must be preserved. Any country which wants its universities to be respected and recognized internationally should protect the importance of academic freedom.
We do not want this action to become precedent in the future, for it will impede intellectual contributions from academicians on national issues, be it sensitive or otherwise. Any interpretation or view expressed by an expert of a field must be recognized as just that. Any disagreement should be handled on a scholarly basis. Intellectual criticism is very vital in the academe in order for the university to grow intellectually and hence, contributing to the growth of a nation.
Academic freedom is mentioned in UNESCO’s Articles 26 and 27 in its “Recommendation Concerning the Status of Higher Education Teaching Personnel”( 1997):
“The right to contribute to social change through freely expressing their opinion of state policies and of policies affecting higher education.”
We appeal to all parties to respect and internalize academic freedom. The awareness and commitment of all concerned stakeholders on this matter is vital to ensure that Malaysia IS the hub of higher learning of international reputation.
Thank you.
ACADEMIC STAFF
INTERNATIONAL ISLAMIC UNIVERSITY MALAYSIA