Bichara Malaya, University of Malaya (2024)

10/08/2024

[Bichara Malaya Journal Vol 6/ Aug 2024]

Introducing the Bichara Malaya Journal Vol 6 for August 2024! Meet the creative minds that brought their distinct viewpoints and specialised knowledge to these perspective articles:

1. Interplay of Religion in A Multicultural Society: A Tool For Divide or Unity
2. ⁠Tobacco Lobbying And the Encircling Issue on the Generational End Game
3. ⁠Pawsitive Unity: Malaysia’s Stray Dog Sanctuary

Don’t miss out on these captivating reads, crafted by our talented writers shaping conversations and sparking change!

Click the link on our bio or scan the QR code to start reading now!

23/06/2024

[ Good Luck on Your Finals ]

Embarking on the finale of our study year for 2023/2024, we, at Bichara Malaya would like to send a tidal wave of luck to all of our students preparing for the upcoming exams. May your efforts and late night study sessions be rewarded.

17/06/2024

[ Happy Eid Al-Adha Mubarak ]

Muslims all throughout the world mark this auspicious day by killing sheep, goats, cows, and camels as a sacrifice to honour Prophet Ibrahim A.S.'s readiness to offer his son, Prophet Ismail A.S.

Bichara Malaya wishes a very happy Eid Al-Adha Mubarak to all those who are celebrating. May this auspicious day be filled with happiness and joy.

14/06/2024

[UMCEC Delays Election – Sensible or ‘Undemocratic’?]

The Universiti Malaya Campus Election Committee ('UMCEC') has officially postponed the campus elections for 2023/2024 to an indeterminate date during the 2024/2025 academic year. After meeting with stakeholders and running a student survey, 63.2% of respondents supported shifting the elections to the 2024/2025 academic year to prevent clashes with the study week for the finals. This decision aligns with the recent changes to the Universities and University Colleges Act (‘UUCA’), including Section 48(4), which extends student council terms to one academic year.

While some student groups are concerned about the influence on campus democracy, UMCEC intends to provide a seamless and inclusive electoral process. However, this still raises worries about the postponement's impact on student engagement and welfare.

01/06/2024

[Happy Gawai Dayak 2024]

Gawai, which comes from the Iban language, meaning ritual or festival, is celebrated to mark the conclusion of the padi (rice) harvesting season as well as a time of togetherness and thankfulness to god and nature for a bountiful harvest.

Bichara Malaya extends heartfelt wishes to everyone for a very happy Gawai. May this year's celebration bring you joy, happiness, good health, and prosperity.

31/05/2024

[Students Protest Fuels Perennial Question: Should UiTM Open Its Doors to All?]

The recent student protest at UiTM has once again reignited the debate: Should UiTM open its doors to all? With a critical shortage of cardiothoracic surgeons in Malaysia, the Malaysian Medical Association (‘MMA’) proposes a temporary admission of non-Bumiputera students to address this urgent healthcare need. However, this sparked a protest on May 17th, organised by UiTM's Student Representative Council (MPP), who viewed it as a threat to Bumiputera rights under Article 153.

Misunderstandings aside, this proposal aims to prioritise public health amid a critical need for specialists.This issue also involves fundamental concerns about identity, tradition, and the future of Malaysia’s education system. What are your thoughts on this issue?

20/05/2024

[Baram’s Unsung Heroes: Indigenous Fight Against Overlooked Deforestation]

Over the last two decades, more than a quarter of Sarawak's forests have been lost, primarily in the Upper Baram Forest Area ('UBFA'). Indigenous people, who have flourished here for generations, are now fighting to defend their land and heritage from Samling Timber Malaysia and other logging businesses' unrelenting march to establish logging and palm oil plantations.

One of the projects, the ' ' campaign, promotes these people’s grassroots activism by demanding immediate sustainable forest management and respect for their ancestral lands. Despite ongoing obstacles, their efforts not only highlight the environmental injustices that Indigenous peoples face but also provide hope for a more sustainable and equitable future.

18/05/2024

[Bichara With Us Forum: Event Recap]

‘The Bichara With Us Forum: The Nexus Between Journalism, Advocacy, and Writing’ was a truly fascinating event, involving thought-provoking conversations about journalism and advocacy, as well as inspiring experiences from our eminent panel members. Our heartfelt gratitude to Ms. Latheefa Koya, Mr. Iqbal Fatkhi, Mr. Zan Azlee, and Dr. Sheila Ramalingam for their needed contributions.

Bichara Malaya is also grateful to all attendees for their active involvement and questions, which made this event very special. Stay tuned for future events as Bichara Malaya continues this vital conversation and works for lasting change.

10/05/2024

[Bichara With Us Forum: Countdown]

Only 1 day left until the Bichara With Us Forum! Are you ready to dive into the nexus of of journalism, advocacy, and writing?

Don’t miss out on this enlightening event. Register now and join the conversation!

*The event is open to everyone*

📆 Date: 11 May 2024 (Saturday)
🕰️ Time: 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
💻 Platform: Online (Microsoft Teams)

🔗 Register here: https://forms.gle/jNiS6yYTNFtofdH67

08/05/2024

[Bichara With Us Forum: Countdown]

Only 3 days left until the Bichara With Us Forum! Are you ready to dive into the nexus of of journalism, advocacy, and writing?

Don’t miss out on this enlightening event. Register now and join the conversation!

*The event is open to everyone*

📆 Date: 11 May 2024 (Saturday)
🕰️ Time: 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
💻 Platform: Online (Microsoft Teams)

🔗 Register here: https://forms.gle/jNiS6yYTNFtofdH67

07/05/2024

[How Free Is Freedom of Speech?: UM underfire for inviting Pro-Israel Academic for a keynote speech]

The choice by Universiti Malaya to host Dr. Bruce Gilley for a keynote speech has sparked an intense discussion about academic freedom and responsible discourse, sending the university into a flurry of controversy. Gilley, known for his controversial views on colonialism and international relations, stirred outrage by criticising Malaysia's foreign policy towards Israel. His statements triggered a nationwide uproar, prompting a review of UM's guest speaker selection protocols and a public apology from the university.

Gilley's subsequent departure from the country, citing safety fears and government response, complicated the unfolding situation. While universities promote diverse viewpoints, preserving respect and understanding is also important.

06/05/2024

[Bichara With Us Forum: Countdown]

Only 5 days left until the Bichara With Us Forum! Are you ready to dive into the nexus of of journalism, advocacy, and writing?

Don’t miss out on this enlightening event. Register now and join the conversation!

*The event is open to everyone*

📆 Date: 11 May 2024 (Saturday)
🕰️ Time: 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
💻 Platform: Online (Microsoft Teams)

🔗 Register here: https://forms.gle/jNiS6yYTNFtofdH67

04/05/2024

[Bichara With Us Forum: Objectives and Event Tentative]

Explore the nexus between journalism, advocacy, and writing with our expert panellists on 11 May. Discover our objectives and tentative schedule to learn more about our forum!

*The event is open to everyone*

📆 Date: 11 May 2024 (Saturday)
🕰️ Time: 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
💻 Platform: Online (Microsoft Teams)

🔗 Register here: https://forms.gle/jNiS6yYTNFtofdH67

Learn how journalism can drive social change and be part of the conversation!

03/05/2024

[Bichara With Us Forum: Meet Our Speakers]

Mark your calendars for May 11th and join us as we welcome distinguished speakers Ms. Latheefa Koya, Mr. Iqbal Fatkhi, and Mr. Zan Azlee, each bringing a wealth of experience and insight to the table. Guiding our discussion will be our moderator, the esteemed Dr. Sheila Ramalingam.

“Bichara With Us Forum: The Nexus between Journalism, Advocacy, and Writing” is a forum event uniting journalists, lawyers, non-governmental organisations, and news agencies under one roof to engage in compelling discussions about leveraging journalism for social impact.

*The event is open to everyone*

📆 Date: 11 May 2024 (Saturday)
🕰️ Time: 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
💻 Platform: Online (Microsoft Teams)

🔗 Register here: https://forms.gle/jNiS6yYTNFtofdH67

01/05/2024

[Happy Labour Day]

Labour Day, also known as ‘Workers’ Day’, is celebrated on the first of May to commemorate workers’ contributions to the nation.

Bichara Malaya extends warms for a restful and rewarding Labour Day to all dedicated workers out there!

28/04/2024

[Dress Code Dilemma: Universiti Malaya’s New Policy Shift Sparks Campus Debate]

With the announcement of a revised dress code guideline, this shift by the university has students voicing concerns over individual freedoms and institutional priorities. While the intention may be to establish clearer standards, the empowerment of all staff to enforce compliance raises questions of overreach. Student associations like Suara Siswa UM and UMANY are actively advocating for student rights amidst the controversy. Yet, larger issues such as module registration and campus congestion remain unaddressed, prompting reflections on the university's commitment to student welfare.

As the debate unfolds, the focus shifts from attire regulations to broader concerns about student empowerment and institutional accountability.

26/04/2024

[Bichara With Us Forum: The Nexus between Journalism, Advocacy, and Writing]

Bichara Malaya is thrilled to announced our first-ever *Bichara Forum* – a groundbreaking event uniting journalists, lawyers, non-governmental organisations, and news agencies under one roof. Save the date and join us for captivating dialogues led by esteemed speakers from diverse backgrounds, inspiring writers, researchers, and advocates to leverage journalism for social impact.

🎤 Our panelists:
1. *Ms Latheefa Koya* from Lawyers for Liberty (‘LFL’)
2. ⁠*Mr Iqbal Fatkhi*, Editor-in-Chief of Cilisos Media
3. ⁠*Mr Zan Azlee*, a homegrown journalist, author, and documentary filmmaker

👤 Our moderator:
*Dr Sheila Ramalingam*, a senior lecturer at the Faculty of Law, University Malaya.

*This event is open to everyone!*🎉

📅 Date: 11th May, 2024 (Saturday)
💻 Platform: Microsoft Teams
🕰️ Time: 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

🔗 Register here: https://forms.gle/jNiS6yYTNFtofdH67

21/04/2024

[Shadows of Corruption: Spanco Tycoon Cheated The Finance Ministry For
RM3.9 Billion Through A Tainted Contract]

Deceiving the Finance Ministry in a government contract worth over RM3.9 billion, Tan Sri Robert Tan Hua Choon, chairman of Spanco Sdn Bhd, faces serious charges, highlighting the need for transparency and integrity in public procurement. The involvement of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (‘MACC’) and allegations by Tan Sri Vincent Tan also highlight the importance of accountability and ethical conduct in governance.

It’s time to uphold these principles for a fair and trustworthy system.

10/04/2024

[Happy Eid al-Fitr]

Eid Al Fitr, also known as ‘Hari Raya Aidilfitri’ for Malaysians, is an Islamic celebration that signifies the conclusion of Ramadan’s fasting.

Bichara Malaya extends warm wishes for a blessed Eid to everyone celebrating. May this festive season of renewal bring happiness, prosperity, and unity to you and your loved ones.

06/04/2024

[Quiet on Set – Unveiling the Abuse of Children’s TV]

Looking back on Nickelodeon’s golden era, we fondly recall the joy these shows brought us in our youth. Yet, the recent docuseries “Quiet on Set: The Dark Side Of Kids TV” has shed light on a troubling reality behind the scenes, revealing deeply disturbing mistreatment and inappropriate behavior towards child actors.

It’s crucial to hold accountable those responsible for these actions, particularly those with the power to silence them. The bravery of former child actors and crew members in speaking out is commendable, and measures must be implemented to safeguard young performers from exploitation and misconduct in the entertainment industry.

01/04/2024

[Is It Really Feminism Or Is It Just White Feminism?]

From ‘women’s rights are human rights’ to a shallow embrace of surface-level feminism, the Oscars 2024 controversy glaringly showcased the disparity and the gaps of white feminism and the women of colour who fall through. Historic nominations for Lily Gladstone and America Ferrera were eclipsed, while 'Hillary Barbie' expressed her disappointment, sparking a vital conversation about the essence of feminism.

In the quest for empowerment, let's not forget the urgent struggles faced by women of color worldwide. Real feminism demands intersectionality, amplifying all voices in the fight for true equality.

31/03/2024

[Bichara Malaya Journal Vol 5 / March 2024]

Introducing the Bichara Malaya Journal Vol 5 for March 2024! Meet the creative minds that brought their distinct viewpoints and specialized knowledge to these perceptive articles:

1. Mind the Gap: Addressing Education Inequality in Malaysia During and Post COVID-19 Pandemic

2. Breaking Barriers: Malaysia’s Quest for Gender Equality Through Citizenship Amendments

3. “I Can Fix Him”: A Call to End Romanticisation of Criminal Behaviour

4. COP28: A Retrospective and Prospective Lens into Climate Action

5: A Year Ahead of The Madani Government: PMX’s Success Story?

Don't miss out on these captivating reads, crafted by our talented writers shaping conversations and sparking change!

Click the link in our bio to start reading now!

29/03/2024

[South Korean Doctors on Strike — Putting lives on the line or Saving them?]

Tensions rose when South Korean doctors clashed with the government over increased medical student quotas. Consequently, the doctors flocked to the streets, resigning en masse and even walking out of their jobs in a stunning demonstration. With a rapidly aging population, vital professions such as emergency care and obstetrics face significant shortages. Critical medical services in South Korea are now at risk as strikes intensify.

Reflecting on the Whitecoat Rally aftermath: Can the government meet doctors' needs? Should healthcare prioritise profit or public welfare? Dive into the discussion about addressing the 'Medical Gap'.

27/03/2024

[Malaysian Government Abandons Planned Citizenship Law Changes: A Victory for Human Rights]

On March 22nd, 2024, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail announced the abandonment of proposed revisions to citizenship legislation, including Sections 19B and 14(1)(e) of the Federal Constitution, following extensive consultations with stakeholders. The proposed revisions originally sought to change citizenship from "operation of law" to "registration," which sparked intense resistance from activists and non-governmental organisations concerned about rising statelessness.

While this decision emphasises the power of collective action, further review of the remaining amendments is required to guarantee that no negative impacts on statelessness endure.

18/03/2024

[Najib's Pardon: Justice Deferred or Justice Denied?]

Malaysia's legal system is under increasing scrutiny as a result of, Najib's legal representative, Tan Sri Muhammad Shafee Abdullah's recent disclosures about the internal Pardons Board meeting procedures, which put into question the transparency and validity of Najib's pardon process.

With rising accountability expectations, it is clear that transparency is essential for maintaining the principles of justice and ensuring equality for all citizens, regardless of social standing. The spotlight is now focused not just on Najib's fate, but also on the larger standards of justice and equality that underpin the country's legal framework.

13/03/2024

[US Airman's Self-Immolation for Israel-Palestine War: Noble Protest or Disturbing Precedent?]

Reflecting on the tragic event of February 25th, 2024, when Air Force service member Aaron Bushnell lit himself on fire in front of the Israeli embassy in Washington D.C. while chanting 'Free Palestine!' as a form of "self-immolation". His bold protest against the genocide of the Palestinian people has provoked heated debate.

Aaron Bushnell's transition from conservative to activist demonstrated the arc of personal conviction. His self-immolation, however controversial, prompts important discussions about justice and peace. Whether considered as courageous or naive, his actions serve as a poignant reminder of the continuous effort to resolve the Israel-Palestine conflict.

12/03/2024

[Ramadan Kareem 2024]

Ramadan is a holy month of fasting that occurs in the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. During this time, Muslims fast, pray, participate in philanthropic activities that benefit the community, and reflect.

Bichara Malaya extends heartfelt wishes of Ramadan Kareem to all those celebrating. May the greatest blessings and rewards come your way during this most awaited holy month.

10/03/2024

[Era’s Tour by Taylor Swift: Who Controls Southeast Asia’s Stage?]

Singapore's exclusive arrangement with Taylor Swift has led to criticism of her Era’s Tour in Southeast Asia. Swift captivates crowds across continents, but her decision to limit her appearances to Singapore in Southeast Asia has prompted outrage from neighbouring nations. While Singapore maintains that the action is not "unfriendly," critics argue that such agreements undermine regional solidarity by denying other countries cultural enrichment and economic opportunity, raising issues about accessibility and inclusivity in the global entertainment arena.

As the Era's Tour takes place, the controversy offers as a stark reminder of the intricate interplay between financial interests, cultural access, and regional tensions.

17/02/2024

Ready to lead in student journalism?

Join us at Bichara Malaya!

Bichara Malaya is on the lookout for dynamic leaders ready to drive change as we open our doors for the recruitment of the Secretary and Head of Outreach Committee roles.

If you're committed to championing free and unbiased journalism, and possess strong leadership skills, apply now through https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdHIfR1pZtpnTJtRag08B5GG6VpP1dXxoJYRzRES-EGIwysbA/viewform?usp=sf_link or tap the link in our bio!

Applications are exclusive to UM students and close on the 12th of March,2024 at 11:59 PM.

Bichara Malaya