KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 16 — Police have launched an investigation into a statement by student group University of Malaya Association of New Youth (UMANY) allegedly calling for the abolition of the national matriculation programme, citing concerns over potential public unrest.
Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) confirmed that a police report was lodged on September 12, 2025, regarding the statement made by UMANY president Tang Yi Ze and published on news portal Malaysiakini.
The statement reportedly urged the Ministry of Higher Education to scrap the matriculation programme and make the Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) the sole qualifying standard for entry into public universities.
According to police, the remarks were deemed to have the potential to create negative public perception towards the national education system, provoke dissatisfaction among certain segments of society, and cause public anxiety.
The case is currently being investigated under Section 505(b) of the Penal Code for making statements likely to cause public alarm, as well as Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 for the improper use of network facilities or services.
To date, police have received four additional reports from members of the public who were dissatisfied with the statement.
Section 505(b) of the Penal Code carries a maximum sentence of two years’ imprisonment, a fine, or both, upon conviction. Meanwhile, Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act provides for a fine of up to RM500,000, imprisonment for up to two years, or both.
In a statement today, Bukit Aman’s Criminal Investigation Department (CID) director Commissioner Datuk M Kumar said police will not compromise on any statements that could threaten public order.
“PDRM will carry out thorough investigations in accordance with the law. We also urge the public to be mindful and responsible when making any statements, whether in public forums or on social media,” he said.
