Tuanku Muhriz urges MOHE to back UKM reforms, citing RM58.45 million procurement misconduct and need for qualified leadership appointments
BANGI: The Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir has called on the Ministry of Higher Education to consistently support reform efforts at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia.
His Royal Highness, who is also UKM’s chancellor, said this includes expediting the appointment of senior management, particularly members of the university’s board of directors and deputy vice-chancellors.
“The appointment of university senior management must involve qualified and responsible candidates,” he stated during UKM’s 53rd Convocation Ceremony.
“Leaders involved in misconduct are not fit to administer a university, especially UKM, which upholds the philosophy of knowledge, quality and morality.”
Tuanku Muhriz expressed serious concern over misconduct related to procurement management at Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz involving three major tenders worth RM58.45 million.
He noted these complaints were investigated and confirmed by the National Audit Department, with several companies appointed without selection committee approval.
“If no appropriate action is taken, this will have negative implications not only financially, but also in terms of service quality, patient comfort and care and the training of medical students at HCTM,” he warned.
He emphasized that UKM must undergo reforms in governance and administration to address these issues.
The chancellor also announced the establishment of the Tuanku Muhriz Royal Chair in Integrity and Good Governance, to be held by former Chief Justice Tun Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat.
The Chair aims to advance research and policy work related to good governance, integrity issues, public administration and institutional reform.
A total of 13,904 graduates will receive their degrees at the convocation ceremony running until December 4. – Bernama
