Kuala Lumpur: The Integrity Unit of public universities and higher education institutions (IPTs) under the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) is set to be placed under the University Board of Directors as an independent entity. This move aims to bolster governance and integrity within the country’s higher education institutions.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir announced that this change is being implemented to ensure transparency in governance. It will also facilitate the effective execution of tasks and integrity monitoring, following reports highlighting issues of integrity and governance in several universities and IPTs. An integrity committee has been established to spearhead significant transformation efforts in governance and integrity management at these institutions.
Dr Zambry emphasized the importance of positioning the Integrity Unit under the University Board of Directors, noting the current lack of uniformity in staffing. Some units are presently under the authority of the vice-chancellor and deputy vice-chancellor. “The board is the highest authority in the university, so we have decided that the Integrity Unit should be placed under it, and this will be implemented immediately,” he stated during a press conference at the Parliament building.
Furthermore, Dr Zambry highlighted the necessity to expand the number of positions within the Integrity Unit at universities and IPTs, especially at higher-grade levels. With limited staff, some units operate with only one or two personnel, despite needing at least seven officers to effectively manage the thousands of students and staff. MOHE plans to adjust the grades, as some officers are currently in junior positions, such as grade 41, which limits their authority.
In addition, MOHE intends to introduce the Certified Integrity Officer Programme in partnership with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Academy to enhance the expertise of staff within the Integrity Unit. Meanwhile, addressing the vacant UKM Vice-Chancellor position after Prof Datuk Dr Mohd Ekhwan Toriman’s resignation in February, Dr Zambry stated that the selection process is ongoing. Regarding the proposal to standardize the coordination of lecturer promotions, he assured that MOHE is examining the matter to ensure fairness in the process.