Police Question Four Speakers Over UM Feminism Club's Sexual Harassment Press Conference

KUALA LUMPUR — Four speakers from the Universiti Malaya Feminism Club (UMFC) have been summoned by the police for questioning over a press conference held to address a sexual harassment case at the university. The speakers are being investigated for alleged violations of the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012.

UMFC expressed confusion over the heightened police scrutiny, noting that student unions and activists have organized similar events without issue in the past. They questioned whether the authorities now have the right to interfere in campus affairs, especially given the heavy police presence at the December 20, 2024 press conference.

The event aimed to submit a memorandum urging the university to take action against a professor accused of sharing nude photographs with students. UMFC criticized the focus on those advocating for justice rather than addressing sexual crimes and protecting victims' rights.

The club also raised concerns about the misuse of power, questioning how victims can trust the police if those supporting them are being targeted. UM had earlier denied reports that the accused professor, who was suspended, had been on campus.