Malaysian minister defends student over Najib fundraiser comments

Higher Education Minister Zambry Abd Kadir has defended Universiti Malaya student Ummi Umairah Bakhit following her controversial remarks regarding a fundraiser for former Prime Minister Najib Razak. During the International Young Future Leaders Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Ummi Umairah questioned the ethics of citizens donating funds to help Najib pay a RM50 million court-imposed fine, asking how future leaders could combat corruption while such donations occur.

Ummi Umairah has stated she will not apologize for her stance, asserting that her views are rooted in principles of integrity, equality, and justice. She expressed hope that others would find the courage to speak out against corruption without fear.

Minister Zambry cautioned political figures against using the student as a tool for propaganda and urged the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to investigate social media backlash, including the potential use of fake accounts to intimidate her. He emphasized that the student has the right to speak, provided freedom of expression is exercised responsibly. Universiti Malaya's vice-chancellor has also confirmed that no disciplinary action has been taken against the student.