THE government has defended the Universiti Islam Antarabangsa Malaysia (UIAM) against opposition criticism over its selection to conduct a study on the proposed implementation of elections for the Kuala Lumpur mayoralty.
Minister of Communications Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, and spokesperson for the Unity Government, described the questioning of the university’s competence as “a very poor attitude” on the part of politicians who should respect the capacity of public institutions.
“I am disappointed that some parties are questioning UIAM’s ability to conduct this study. To me, that is not a good attitude by these politicians.
“They should view UIAM as an educational institution capable of conducting research. I consider it a very bad approach,” Fahmi, the spokesperson for the Unity Government, told reporters following a post-Cabinet briefing.
He added that the opposition’s remarks were “highly irresponsible,” undermining an institution that has produced numerous leaders both within Malaysia and abroad.
“They are looking down on a very important institution that has nurtured many, not just leaders in our country, but leaders in other nations as well,” he said.
The comments came after Perikatan Nasional (PN) raised concerns over UIAM’s appointment, questioning why the university was chosen for the study when other institutions might have greater expertise in electoral matters.
Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan, PN Chief Whip, reportedly asked for justification for the selection.
Fahmi clarified that the study’s recommendations on the conduct of local government and mayoral elections were not discussed during today’s Cabinet meeting.
He said that Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department for Federal Territories, Hannah Yeoh, had only provided a verbal update on the matter.
“She merely informed that a study is being conducted by UIAM and that there is nothing yet ready to be presented to Cabinet for discussion,” Fahmi said.
“So it was merely an oral briefing, not a Cabinet note or memorandum.”
The government’s response highlights a commitment to respecting public universities’ academic capabilities while underscoring that any proposals on electoral reforms for Kuala Lumpur’s mayoralty have not yet been formally considered by the Cabinet. - February 6, 2026
