THE President of the University of Malaya New Youth Association (UMANY), Tang Yi Ze, appeared at the Wangsa Maju District Police Headquarters this afternoon to give a statement regarding UMANY’s recent call for the abolition of Malaysia’s matriculation programme.
According to his legal representative, Zaid Malek, the police investigation is being carried out under Section 505(b) of the Penal Code and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.
He criticised the probe as unwarranted, stating that the student group’s remarks did not amount to any criminal offence.
“I wish to reiterate that the statement issued by UMANY contains no criminal elements and should not be subjected to police investigation,” said Zaid, speaking to the media outside the Wangsa Maju police station.
“They have a right to express themselves, and this concerns a matter of public interest. I do not understand why this has become a police matter.”
Zaid added that the education system is a public policy issue and should remain open to public discourse.
Tang arrived at the station accompanied by his lawyer at approximately 2.05pm.
Speaking briefly to reporters, Tang expressed appreciation to individuals and non-governmental organisations who have shown support for UMANY amid the ongoing investigation.
Police had confirmed earlier this month that an investigation was launched following a statement issued by UMANY urging the government to abolish the matriculation programme.
The first police report on the matter was lodged on 12 September after a news portal published the student group’s statement.
UMANY had previously submitted a memorandum to the Ministry of Higher Education, calling for the matriculation pathway to be scrapped and for the Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) to be adopted as the sole standard for entry into public university degree programmes. - September 23, 2025
