KUALA LUMPUR – Former International Islamic University Malaysia (UIAM) academic Dr Solehah Yaacob will challenge the termination of her service by the university at the Industrial Court, alleging that she was dismissed within 24 hours without being given an opportunity to appeal.
Solehah said she regarded the university’s decision as unprofessional and claimed that UIAM had offered compensation equivalent to six months’ salary, which she rejected.
“I was dismissed within 24 hours and was not allowed to appeal,” she was quoted as saying.
She also claimed that the termination came a day after she received an award related to the Malaysian Research Assessment (MyRA) from the Higher Education Ministry (MOHE).
The dispute follows UIAM’s confirmation on Aug 23 that Solehah’s service as an academic staff member had ended effective April 27.
In a statement, UIAM’s Office for Communication, Advocacy and Promotion said Solehah no longer held the position of professor at the university and was not authorised to represent UIAM in any capacity.
The university also said the use of any title, position, kulliyyah, centre, institute, department or other official affiliation with UIAM was not permitted in promotional materials, media reports, publications, advertisements, social media content or other forms of dissemination.
UIAM had previously established an internal inquiry panel to examine Solehah’s statements concerning her claim that ancient Roman shipbuilding techniques were believed to have been learned from Malay seafarers. She said her hypothesis was based on classical Arabic sources.
Solehah has disputed the circumstances surrounding her termination, while UIAM has not publicly stated that any particular controversial statement was the reason for ending her service.
The matter is now expected to be determined through the Industrial Court process. -MalayaDailyToday
