UNIVERSITI Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) has pledged its full cooperation with the authorities and the family of Syamsul Haris Shamsudin, a 22-year-old cadet from the university’s Reserve Officer Training Unit (Palapes), whose recent death during training has raised questions and prompted calls for further investigation.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, UTM said it took note of a press conference held by non-governmental organisations alongside Syamsul’s family, and expressed appreciation for public concern over the case.
“UTM acknowledges the media briefing held yesterday by the NGO and the family of the late Syamsul Haris Shamsudin. The university extends its thanks for the concern shown by all parties,” it said.
“UTM respects the position of the family and will provide full cooperation to ensure that investigations are carried out in accordance with the requirements of the law.”
Calls for a second post-mortem have intensified after Syamsul’s mother, Ummu Haiman Bee Daulatgun, 45, expressed doubts over the initial conclusion that her son had died of a seizure.
She believes he may have been physically assaulted during his training at the Combat Inoculation Range, Army Training Centre (Pulada) in Ulu Tiram on 28 July.
“I believe my son was beaten, abused and tortured during training, which led to his death,” she was quoted as saying, adding that she had appointed legal counsel and notified the Minister of Higher Education.
She also revealed that a special committee has been formed to investigate the circumstances surrounding his death.
Earlier, Kota Tinggi district police chief Superintendent Yusof Othman confirmed that a comprehensive investigation was underway, with statements recorded from witnesses and medical personnel. However, no updates on the findings have been made public to date.
Syamsul Haris, the eldest of three siblings, was buried shortly after his passing, but the family is now requesting that his grave be exhumed to allow a second autopsy.
The incident has prompted broader scrutiny of training protocols within Palapes, with the Malaysian Army reportedly reviewing its standard operating procedures.
While the Defence Minister previously stated that no signs of abuse were detected, Syamsul’s family remains unconvinced — pointing to visible marks on his chest as possible indicators of physical trauma.
The case continues to unfold as public pressure mounts for a transparent, impartial investigation and accountability over what happened during the cadet’s final hours. - August 14, 2025
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