SHAH ALAM - Bersatu Youth wing Armada has called for a full police investigation into allegations that an Umno division chief allegedly slapped a Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Kelantan student leader during an official event.
Its information chief Harris Idaham Rashid said Armada takes the allegation by Nik Alif Aiman Abdul Ariffahmi that he was slapped by Dewan Negara senator Datuk Azhar Ahmad seriously.
Harris said the incident allegedly occurred in public during an official function, making the matter even more concerning.
"Azhar's denial alone is not sufficient for this matter to be resolved. Armada demands a full investigation by the police because this allegation involves a criminal act that should be investigated under Section 352 of the Penal Code," he said in a statement on Monday.
Harris also urged individuals who were present at the event to come forward and provide statements to assist investigations.
"Armada calls on all witnesses who were in the vicinity of the incident to come forward to the nearest police station and give their statements. If sufficient evidence exists, fair and appropriate prosecution should be taken against the perpetrator," he said.
The controversy emerged following claims by Nik Alif, who is also the UiTM Kelantan Student Representative Council (MPP) for the 2025/2026 session, that he was allegedly slapped by Azhar.
Armada said it stood in solidarity with the student leader, arguing that the allegation had affected his dignity and reputation as a respected student representative.
"His dignity has been tarnished by the allegation that he was slapped, which is enough to cause embarrassment to him. He is a student leader respected by fellow students and such an incident could affect his standing and character," he said.
He added that based on Nik Alif's claim, the alleged incident occurred shortly after he informed Azhar that he was the grandson of former Kelantan Menteri Besar, the late Tan Sri Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat.
"Armada wishes to stress that political differences cannot be used as a reason for such an incident to occur," he said.
He added that Armada remained committed to promoting mature politics based on mutual respect regardless of age, race, religion or background.
As of publication, Azhar has denied the allegation. No official findings from police investigations have been announced.