UM apologises after indecent campus play triggers backlash

SHAH ALAM - Universiti Malaya (UM) has apologised over a student theatre performance that sparked public backlash after clips of the show went viral on social media, triggering debate over artistic limits, campus standards and student conduct.

In a statement, the public university said it takes the matter seriously and acknowledges all concerns raised, clarifying that all performances under the Universiti Malaya Theatre Carnival (Karviter) must adhere to strict guidelines.

"Under the general conditions and rules of Karviter, every performance must be free of negative elements, provocation, or content that could affect religious, moral, ethical and cultural values, as well as the university's reputation.

"Internal review revealed the scenes shown did not align with the original script, which had already undergone a vetting process. This was a clear violation of the competition's conditions which were set," it said.

The controversy began after a video of a theatre performance featuring an intimate scene, staged in a university hall, circulated widely on social media.

Many online users criticised the act as unsuitable for one of the country’s leading higher education institutions.

"UM apologises for the error and any distress caused. The university does not compromise on any violation of programme guidelines or regulations," it said in the statement.

It also said the performance has been disqualified from evaluation, with additional monitoring measures to be implemented to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Commenting on the issue, independent preacher Firdaus Wong called for measured criticism while expressing disapproval of the act.

"We do not agree with that act, but criticism should not go beyond reasonable limits when condemning it.

"Islam teaches us moderation in all matters, including in how we express love and hatred," he said.