The administration acted unprofessionally by shutting down the PA system to prevent an invited speaker, Wong Yan Ke, from speaking, issuing threats and dismissing the audience, the union said.

“This was excessive and unnecessary. Academic freedom should be upheld at all times,” it said.

“The university administration has no right to dictate who can or cannot be a speaker and should only take action against the speaker if their speech is inappropriate or against the law,” it said in a statement.

Wong had come to public attention when he carried a protest placard on stage, demanding the resignation of the vice-chancellor, during UM’s 59th convocation ceremony.

The student union said Wong was invited in his capacity as a Suaram coordinator.

The union demanded that the university officials involved apologise for their improper conduct and refrain from acting in such a manner in the future to ensure that freedom of speech is preserved.

“All political parties should also pledge to uphold student autonomy, academic freedom and freedom of speech in all educational institutions, especially with the upcoming general elections,” it said.

The student union stressed that the issue was about the infringement of freedom of speech and not about the presence of Wong at the forum.

The forum was held yesterday in conjunction with UM-Week of Welcome.