KUALA LUMPUR: The Universiti Teknologi MARA Alumni Association (PAUiTM), is against opening the institute of higher learning to all races.
The alumni which represents 700,000 UiTM alumni nationwide said it took a serious view of the demands from Hindu Rights Action Force (HINDRAF 2.0) which among others urged the opening of the university for all races.
“PAUiTM stands firmly and is unanimously against any attempt to open UiTM entry to all races.
“It is based on the premise that UiTM's position as a high level education centre for Malay and Bumiputera children is part of the Malay rights and privileges component, as set out in Article 153 of the Federal Constitution,” it said in a statement, tonight.
Based on this fact, it said any move to challenge the privilege would be seen as a violation of the Federal Constitution.
“While PAUiTM is aware that Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad needs to take note of any claims that represent the various communities in the country, the matter must be addressed strictly with all components of the Pakatan Harapan government in the context of maintaining the rights and privileges of the Malays,” the statement said.
PAUiTM said it is worried that Hindraf's demand is akin to 'pouring oil into the fire' and will spark the anger of the Bumiputera Malays in the country.
“In this regard we want such a seditious statement to be stopped by any party."
Instead, PAUiTM suggested that the government through the Education Ministry continue to find ways to further strengthen the premier Bumiputera education institution.
“To ensure that UiTM is not threatened by any quarters, we propose that it it is placed under an initiative inform of a protection under the Malay Rulers Council,” it said.