Plagiarism a serious offence in academia
I REFER to “UPM duo in plagiarism scandal” (Sept 14) and find it unbelievable that no action seems to have been taken by the university a year after the plagiarism was uncovered. They were a Professor and a senior lecturer whom should show a good and moral example to students.
Plagiarism is considered to be a very serious cheating offence in academia. Someone who commits the offence is also likely to commit fraud in their research work. In most western and world-class universities, lecturers and even students have been expelled for committing either plagiarism or fraud in their research work or publications.
Universiti Putra Malaysia’s intention to “severely reprimand” them will no doubt send the wrong message to the other lecturers and students who may think that they can get away with “light sentences” for committing such offences.
It also sends a subtle message that this offence may be more widespread than that exposed by the media.
The Higher Education Ministry should set up a task force and investigate the matter in greater detail to stop this disgraceful act. Action should be taken against the management of the university if there has been a cover-up.
Zahar
Kuala Lumpur
16/09/09
I REFER to “UPM duo in plagiarism scandal” (Sept 14) and find it unbelievable that no action seems to have been taken by the university a year after the plagiarism was uncovered. They were a Professor and a senior lecturer whom should show a good and moral example to students.
Plagiarism is considered to be a very serious cheating offence in academia. Someone who commits the offence is also likely to commit fraud in their research work. In most western and world-class universities, lecturers and even students have been expelled for committing either plagiarism or fraud in their research work or publications.
Universiti Putra Malaysia’s intention to “severely reprimand” them will no doubt send the wrong message to the other lecturers and students who may think that they can get away with “light sentences” for committing such offences.
It also sends a subtle message that this offence may be more widespread than that exposed by the media.
The Higher Education Ministry should set up a task force and investigate the matter in greater detail to stop this disgraceful act. Action should be taken against the management of the university if there has been a cover-up.
Zahar
Kuala Lumpur
16/09/09
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