UUM’s Dewan Mu’adzam Shah was unavailable for a SADA ceremony due to safety issues from roof damage, with the venue change decided weeks prior
ALOR SETAR: Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) has clarified that a graduation ceremony for Syarikat Air Darul Aman (SADA) could not use Dewan Mu’adzam Shah due to safety concerns.
UUM deputy vice-chancellor Prof Dr Ahmad Martadha Mohamed stated the hall’s roof structure was damaged by heavy rain prior to the event last Thursday.
He said university management decided on December 1 that the hall could not temporarily host any large events following safety inspections.
“The decision was in line with a notice circulated via email on March 7 to all UUM staff,” Ahmad Martadha explained in a statement today.
That notice stated Dewan Mu’adzam Shah would be affected by upgrading and repair works from May 2025 to November 2027.
He emphasised the venue change was not made just two days before the ceremony, countering claims by Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor.
Ahmad Martadha said repair works were only temporarily suspended for the UUM Convocation Ceremony in November.
“The decision was taken in the interest of safety to avoid any potential risks,” he added.
Despite the change, UUM provided full support including academic gowns, seats, and other facilities for the SADA event.
Previously, Muhammad Sanusi voiced disappointment, alleging UUM cancelled the hall use at the last minute. – Bernama
