Page 28 - Newsfeed December 2025

时事回应 CURRENTAFFAIRS

Young Buddhist Association of Malaysia Calls on Universiti

Teknologi Malaysia to Review Its Cultural and Arts Regulations

The Young Buddhist Association of Malaysia (YBAM) respectfully calls upon Universiti
Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) to provide a formal response and clarification regarding its
recently revised Cultural and Arts Regulations. Previously, YBAM had formally written
to UTM to express concerns and to request a review of certain provisions within the
regulations; however, to date, no response has been received.

YBAM expresses its sincere appreciation for UTM’s long-standing efforts in promoting
campus cultural and arts activities that uphold positive values and foster harmonious
coexistence.

However, upon reviewing the revised regulations, YBAM is concerned that certain
provisions may potentially affect diversity, inclusivity, and intercultural understanding.
YBAM does not seek to question religious sensitivities, but rather hopes that the
university will prudently re-examine the relevant provisions so as to continue
nurturing graduates with global perspectives who are able to engage rationally within
a diverse society. In this regard, YBAM respectfully puts forward the following
suggestions:

1. Mixed-gender cultural performances

YBAM understands that the regulations are intended to uphold modesty and respect.
However, provided that no indecent or immoral content is involved, mixed-gender
performances are a common form of artistic expression within Malaysia’s
multicultural context. A blanket prohibition may unintentionally restrict healthy and
positive cultural expression.

2. Restrictions on music style and cultural expression

The university’s emphasis on “moderation” is understandable. However, requiring
performances to be strictly limited to “soft” or “Malay-style” expressions may
unintentionally constrain the development of diverse cultural and artistic forms.
YBAM believes that, as long as performances do not promote negative values, diverse
forms of artistic expression should be given fair and reasonable consideration.

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