Corruption in higher education institutions (IPT) should not be treated as a minor issue and must be addressed firmly without compromise, said Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir.
He stressed that any form of abuse of power or corrupt practices, whether involving small or large amounts, remains a serious offence that must be taken seriously by all parties.
“We cannot treat this as something trivial. Any issues involving abuse of power or corruption in universities, polytechnics and other institutions must be taken seriously,” he said during a press conference after officiating the Public-Private Research Network (PPRN) 2026 Conference in Kuala Lumpur today.
At the same time, he criticised certain parties for labelling IPT as a “hotbed of corruption”, saying such claims unfairly tarnish the reputation of the entire higher education sector.
Zambry also reiterated that the ministry does not tolerate corruption and fully allows the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to carry out investigations without interference.
“We do not block MACC from entering and reviewing specific cases. We give full cooperation,” he said.
He added that collaboration with the National Audit Department has also been strengthened to ensure financial management and project implementation in IPT are properly monitored.
According to him, all recommendations made by the Auditor-General will be acted upon as part of efforts to improve existing governance systems.
“I am not saying everything is perfect, but it is also not true that universities are unable to function or have become centres of widespread abuse of power,” he said.
Previously, media reports claimed that corruption within IPT is becoming increasingly concerning, involving administrative and financial matters as well as academic processes such as grading, course approvals and research opportunities.
