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ALSA UUM LEGAL DISCLOSURE 2020
Freedom of Speech and Expression of University Students in Political Issues: To Speak or Not To Speak
"Every citizen has the right to freedom of speech and expression." - Article 10 (1)(a) of the Federal Constitution
Are university students entitled to freedom of speech and expression in stating their opinions on political issues? Can the students be punished for voicing out their opinions or having a peaceful protest in the campus area? If yes, what are the limitations and boundaries of such freedom?
These questions were answered in ALSA UUM Legal Disclosure 2020 themed “Freedom of Speech and Expression of University Students in Political Issues: To Speak or Not To Speak”.
PANELIST 1
Mr. Lim Wei Jiet
We are joined by Mr. Lim Wei Jiet, a dispute resolution lawyer from Messrs Sreenevasan, to share his insights as a lawyer on the topic of "Freedom of Speech and Expression of University Students in Political Issues - To Speak or Not to Speak".
Mr. Lim Wei Jiet has expressed his points of view with respect to the case of Mr. Wong Yan Ke, one of the University Malaya’s students who held a solo demonstration during his graduation ceremony to request the Vice Chancellor to resign. Does it constitute a criminal offence?
PANELIST 2
Prof. Madya Dr Shamrahayu Abd Aziz
Prof. Madya Dr. Shamrahayu Abd Aziz is a well-known academician who specializes in Constitutional Law. At the same time, she is also an Associate Professor at IIUM from 1991 until now.
Prof. Madya Dr. Shamrahayu Abd Aziz has shared her perception on whether or not universities should allow students to speak on political issues. She also discussed on the point of absolute freedom to the university students to talk and express their point of view regarding political issues.
PANELIST 3
Mr. Ooi Tze Howe
Mr. Ooi Tze Howe is the founder and President for Higher Education Youth Association (HEYA).
In the video, Mr. Ooi Tze Howe has cleared the doubts as to the exact authority that can take disciplinary action against the university student who violates the restriction speaking on political issues. He has also expressed his views on to what extent such freedom to speak on political issues should be allowed.
PANELIST 4
Mr. Jerald Joseph
Mr. Jerald Joseph is the present Commissioner of SUHAKAM. He is an experienced human rights defender and trainer consultant specialising in the rights of Indigenous People, elimination of racial discrimination, and economic, social and cultural rights (ESCR).
Mr. Jerald Joseph share his standpoint on the student movements that occurred in several countries during the past decade. The emergence of student movements has indicated the importance of students’ role in voicing out their displeasure towards the ruling government on their wrongful acts. Mr. Jerald Joseph believes that the student’s voice towards political issues is crucially important in shaping the future of the country .
