Profesor UTM berjaya ketepikan keputusan pemecatan

The Johor High Court has ordered Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) to reconsider the dismissal of Professor B Malarvili after ruling that the university's disciplinary process denied him a fair chance to defend himself. UTM must review the case, gather evidence, and give Malarvili the opportunity to present additional arguments and consider whether witnesses should be called for statements or further investigation.

However, the court did not find Malarvili guilty of the charges, as it did not order UTM to reinstate him or pay backpay or damages. In his written judgment, Budiman stated that the new review could lead to the withdrawal of charges, Malarvili's acquittal of the charges, a lighter penalty, or the dismissal of the dismissal altogether, as long as the process complies with the law.

Budiman emphasized that the right to be heard is a fundamental and not merely a formal requirement of justice. He noted that admitting the use of forged signatures does not necessarily mean admitting to perjury, dishonesty, or coercion. The court also found that UTM had not shown that requested documents were provided or adequately explained how Malarvili's defense arguments were considered after the disciplinary hearing elevated the case.

Malarvili, who worked at UTM's Skudai campus for about 21 years, faced charges related to forged signatures on a supporting letter, an unauthorized overseas trip, irregular attendance records, UNISERF program-related activities, and involvement in business-related activities. Both UTM and the disciplinary hearings were ordered to pay RM15,000 to Malarvili separately and collectively.