Every right-thinking person on the street must be appalled by USM's reprimand and warning (as reported) to its students about talking to the press and anybody else on the disciplinary hearing!

Why the secrecy? If USM had done the right thing and had a reasoned decision-making process, then there should not be any reason for secrecy. Are disciplinary hearings a subject falling under the Official Secrets Act now?

The warning by USM is ludicrous especially when every person has a right at law to have recourse to the law courts and in recent years to Suhakam. I think universities and - I might as well say it - the education minister should respect due process and not insinuate to the university population of the unleashing of their power over university freedom and autonomy.

I certainly hope that lawyers, the Bar Council and university alumni groups will quickly come around and say something about what is happening in recent weeks on staff and student freedom. This is especially crucial when university staff and students are unable to respond due to fear of being disciplined.

I personally think statements to curb university freedom amount to intimidation and undue influence. Rights of a large section of our youth population are being trampled upon.