Aliran is deeply concerned by Universiti Teknologi Malaysia’s failure to recognise that its new arts and cultural ruling contradicts constitutional provisions for diversity and inclusivity within Malaysia’s diverse society.
In a recent official circular, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia banned groups with “foreign cultural elements” from performing on its campus.
UTM stated that the term “foreign cultures” refers to cultural elements that are not in line with the institution’s values and the cultural practices of Malaysian society.
The university sought to assure the public that the term does not refer to any culture, tradition or community within the country. But its explanation lacks clarity and conviction.
The university stated that its intention was “to ensure that every arts and culture activity is based on local values and identities”.
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However, the absurdity and lack of clarity of the circular is glaringly obvious when examined alongside other provisions in the ruling.
The ruling stipulates that mixed-gender cultural performances are not allowed. Performances by female groups may only be watched by a female audience. And the rhythm of the music chosen for performances must be “gentle, Malay in character, and tasteful”.
These provisions raise a couple of serious questions: who determines what qualifies as “gentle, Malay in character, and tasteful”? And who decides which cultural performances meet these arbitrary criteria?
Culture is not static – it evolves continually, shaped by diverse influences and creative expression.
The ruling’s restrictions on gender and audience segregation are particularly troubling. They discriminate against women by curtailing their inclusion and equal opportunities in the performing arts and entertainment. The provisions may potentially exclude women from participating in plays, dramas and performances that fall outside narrowly defined “local” cultural boundaries.
Contrary to assertions that only ethnic and religious minority students will be affected, these restrictions could also affect ethnic Malay cultural performances. Traditional Malay dances frequently feature both male and female dancers performing together. Under this ruling, such performances could be banned. Malay cultural performances by female groups could be restricted to female-only audiences, fundamentally altering the communal nature of these cultural expressions.
Aliran notes that this UTM ruling reflects a broader, deeply concerning pattern of moral policing and the imposition of restrictive conditions on artistic freedom.
The more serious issue with the circular – and similar measures elsewhere – lies in the implications and consequences: indiscriminate moral policing, gender discrimination and the curtailment of artistic freedom for both Muslim and non-Muslim performers alike. Such measures could exclude participation by people from ethnic and religious minority backgrounds, as well as Malay performers whose work does not conform to these narrow definitions.
This ban directly contradicts UTM’s assertion that it respects and celebrates the unity and diverse ethnicities, religions and cultures that make up its campus community.
Aliran calls upon the university administration to immediately rescind this flawed ruling.
Aliran executive committee
17 November 2025
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