The University of Malaya has faced backlash after hosting an American academic accused of spreading Zionist propaganda and making inflammatory remarks towards Malaysian politicians supporting the Palestinian cause. Bruce Gilley, a Political Science Professor, has ignited controversy by alleging that Malaysian politicians advocate for a 'second Holocaust' against Jews while also targeting Malaysia's former prime minister.
Gilley's comments, delivered at a lecture organized by the University of Malaya, sparked outrage as he suggested Malaysian politicians take cues from Germany on "how to kill Jews," echoing sentiments attributed to Tun Dr Mahathir. His statements also criticized Malaysia's foreign policy, suggesting that a country whose leaders threaten Jews cannot be taken seriously in global affairs and would not be a friend or partner of the United States.
The remarks eliciting a negative response from online users who questioned Gilley's account. Additionally, the university faced criticism for inviting a pro-Zionist speaker.
In response to the controversy, the University of Malaya has initiated an investigation into Gilley's remarks and has canceled another lecture scheduled for him. The decision comes amidst growing scrutiny over the university's choice to host speakers with contentious views. Minister of Higher Education has also issued a statement on this incident, attached below:
Gilley has recently posted an apology to his X account regarding the incident.
However, he subsequently asserted that Malaysia poses safety risks for travelers, stating, "I have safely departed from Malaysia, one step ahead of the Islamo-fascist mob whipped up by the government there. This is not a safe country to travel to now. Updates to follow."
In a subsequent tweet, he seemed to have established a GoFundMe account, declaring, "I won't accept reimbursement of travel and lodging costs from the University of Malaya due to its disgraceful behavior and that of the Malaysian government. The $2,346 raised here covers my one-way flight to Malaysia and my hotel."
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Source: Astro Awani, X
