Referring to a local varsity which had opened nominations for the Ibrahim Ali Award to students who have “clear and consistent” principles in upholding their race to win a monetary prize of RM5,000, the Vice President of Gerakan, Dato’ Mah Siew Keong today criticizes the setting up of such an award.

He also says that, rightfully, awards should be named after distinguished individuals who have served the country and contributed to the growth and unity of Malaysia.

Dato’ Mah asks, “What has Ibrahim Ali contributed other that making racist statement and creating problems. By giving an award in his name will only tarnish the image of the university because he is not a good role model for the university students. Besides, a university is a place where students are taught to be open minded and receptive to multiracial concept, by setting up such award in the name of Ibrahim Ali will send a wrong message to the university students that they should follow his foot step to be against the 1 Malaysia concept.”

Dato’ Mah said that he did a quick survey by asking 10 friends, including Malays, Chinese and Indians and all did not agree with award being name after Ibrahim Ali. That shows what Malaysians think of Ibrahim Ali.

Mah Siew Keong says, “Should the university proceed with such an award, it will lead to bad publicity of the university onwards which might result in future UiTM graduates facing disadvantage when seeking for job.”

“I am quite sure that there are many people who are angry with Ibrahim Ali for his racist statements over the years, thus, it is unfair to graduates trying to get a job if the employer associates UiTM with Ibrahim Ali,” he added.

Dato’ Mah says, “There are so many other leaders who are more deserving of awards name after them so I call upon UiTM to scrap the Ibrahim Ali Award.”