1. Student Safety Policy

Policy Steward(s): Department of Human Resources/Registrar/Student Experience

Safety on Campus
UNIRAZAK works with various authorities to continuously ensure that buildings, classrooms, libraries and other campus areas are safe learning and working spaces for students and staff.

Safety in Lecture Theatres & Classrooms
Lecture theatres and classrooms are typically considered non-hazardous with minimal risk of any injury. However, accidents happen! Lecturers are responsible for the safety of students during classes or instructional periods.

UR Safety Superheroes
UR staff are also trained in Basic Occupational First Aid, CPR & AED Training. A team of selected Safety Superheroes are stationed on designated floors and can be contacted during emergencies. Our Safety Heroes are equipped with fully stocked essential first aid supplies and are able to tackle a range of minor injuries and incidents.
Should you require aid, remember to reach out to our Safety Superheroes, whose contact numbers are displayed near the elevator.

Emergencies Involving Students
It is the policy of the University to render emergency assistance to students who are seriously injured, suffer serious illness, or experience other personal emergencies while attending the University, and to notify and assist the families of students who have died, are seriously ill or injured, are missing or experience other personal emergency situations.

Reporting Emergencies:
The designated Director of Students Experience (SXD) is to be notified immediately of all emergencies involving students, while reporting to the senior management team. They have the authority and the responsibility for coordinating the efforts made by the University to assist the student and the student's family.
Situations involving students which are to be reported include, but are not limited to, the death of a student; life-threatening injuries resulting from attempted suicides, fires, explosions, traffic crashes or other accidents; life threatening illnesses; and missing students.

The designated Student Experience representative will have the responsibility for notifying the following persons or departments about student emergencies as soon as possible:

1. Registrar - The Registrar will notify all senior management team as appropriate.
2. International Student Office (ISO) - when the student involved is an international student.
3. Dean/School - The Dean of the school in which the student is enrolled shall be notified as appropriate.

Notifications to Families of Students Involved in Emergencies:
The designated Director of Student Experience (SXD), by advice of the senior management team, shall be responsible for ensuring that the family of a student involved in an emergency is notified of the emergency and shall coordinate assistance to the family of the student on behalf of the University.

Emergencies Involving Students While Engaged in University Travel:
Whenever a student is involved in an emergency while travelling on a University sponsored trip, e.g. trips with student organisations and athletic teams, the staff member or other person in-charge (PIC) of the activity shall contact Student Experience (SXD).

Subject to changes when necessary.
Date Approved: 26 April 2024
Date Published: 1 June 2024
Effective Date: 1 June 2024

 

2. Sustainable Investment Policy

Policy Steward: Department of Procurement & Management Accounts

Sustainable investment is known as "investment in an economic activity that contributes to an environmental or social objective, provided that the investment does not significantly harm any environmental or social objective and that the investee companies follow good governance practices".

UNIRAZAK is committed to integrate environmental, social and governance factors into the investment decision making process and practices with a target to reduce and eliminate negative impact on its investment returns. All staff have a duty and responsibility to adhere to the policy.

UR Approach:

1. We will actively engage with companies through our investment managers to encourage best practice in environmental, social, and ethical standards.
2. Invest in funds, companies and projects that contribute to the transitions to a more sustainable and inclusive economy, addressing challenges such as climate change, social inequality, and resource depletion.
3. We will utilize the specialist knowledge of the investment managers to provide the University with the opportunity to make a positive contribution towards sustainability including alternative technologies in its investment portfolio.
4. We will consider environmental and social issues when making an investment in a company, in the belief that socially sustainable companies are more likely to be successful in the long run.
5. We will seek collaborations with other institutions, organizations, and industry experts to enhance our knowledge, share best practices in sustainable investing.
6. We will regularly review, update, and evaluate our practices to ensure its continued alignment with the sustainability goals and evolving best practices.
7. We will periodically raise awareness on sustainable investing among students, faculty staff and other stakeholders through educational program, seminars, and workshops.

Subject to changes when necessary.
Date Approved: 26 April 2024
Date Published: 1 June 2024
Effective Date: 1 June 2024

 

3. Sustainable Procurement Policy

Policy Steward: Department of Procurement & Management Accounts

Sustainable Procurement is a process that consolidates environmental, social and governance factors of corporate responsibility in decision making and procurement processes, while meeting stakeholder requirements.

UNIRAZAK’s Sustainable Procurement Policy outlines our commitment towards environmentally responsible purchasing that is conducted fairly and transparently. Purchases made are also in compliance with all relevant environmental regulations and legislations.

This policy is applicable to all materials, goods, equipment, works, utilities and services, including consulting, purchased by the University. It is made compulsory for all University contracted and subcontracted services as well as partners, staff and students to adhere to this policy.

UNIRAZAK continuously reports and monitors all university purchasing activities and intends to reduce the impact of our activities including in terms of carbon emissions as well as environmental and social risks.

Policy Objectives:

1. To prevent staff, the board, suppliers and potential suppliers, members of procurement-related committees, and/or any other parties involved in the procurement process from accepting and/or offering bribes;
2. To require staff, the board of directors, suppliers and potential suppliers, members of procurement-related committees, and/or any other parties involved in the procurement process to report any bribery and corruption to the appropriate authorities.
3. To avoid any conflict of interest;
4. To ensure the university does not incur "unnecessary costs" in conducting procurement activities; and
5. To prohibit unauthorised use of university’s proprietary information.

UR Approach

1. We will ensure there is sufficient knowledge and capacity in their respective Services to deliver the requirements of the standard and facilitate progress across all those included in the process.
2. We will facilitate the delivery of sustainable procurement through the category management process, including tendering activity, contract management and value tracking, seeking continuous improvement where possible.
3. We will encourage new and existing suppliers to consider and improve the social and environmental impacts of their services and activities by providing appropriate tools.
4. We will consider how we can support the circular economy under Madani Economy Framework through our procurement and purchasing decisions.
5. We will make appropriate training available to all staff including procurement specialists, buyers and others involved in purchasing decisions.
6. We will set, communicate and implement clear objectives and targets to ensure continued improvement in environmental performance and co-operate, where possible, with others to develop, utilize and share best practice in terms of environmental performance at a local, regional, and international level.

Subject to changes when necessary.
Date Approved: 26 April 2024
Date Published: 1 June 2024
Effective Date: 1 June 2024

 

4. Modern Slavery Statement/Policy

Policy Steward(s): Department of Human Resources/Registrar/Student Experience

UNIRAZAK is committed to ensuring that there is no modern slavery or human trafficking in our business, supply chains or in any part of our activities. Modern slavery is depicted as situations where offenders use threats, violence, coercion or deception to exploit and control the victims. Modern Slavery includes forced labour, child labour, human trafficking, servitude and slavery among others.

UNIRAZAK takes a zero tolerance approach to modern slavery and ensures that our business and activities are transparent, open and ethical. Razakians have a duty and responsibility to support this approach.

Link to report suspected modern slavery acts.

Current Laws and legislation in Malaysia:
“Article 6 of the Federal Constitution provides that no person may be held in slavery. Forced labour is a criminal offence under the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Act 2007, and Section 374 of the Penal Code.”

Subject to changes when necessary.
Date Approved: 26 April 2024
Date Published: 1 June 2024
Effective Date: 1 June 2024

 

UNIVERSITI TUN ABDUL RAZAK SDN. BHD.

(410764-P)

 

 

 

POLICY (“POL”)

 

 

RESEARCH POLICY POL-RMC-01

 

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Revision History

 

Revision No.	Details of Revision	Effective Date
00	Issue for use	27/09/2024

 

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Table of Content

 

No.	Title	Page No	Remarks
1.0	SCOPE	4
2.0	REFERENCE	4
3.0	OWNERSHIP	4
4.0	AFFECTED DEPARTMENTS	4
5.0	OBJECTIVE	4
6.0	DEFINITION / ABBREVIATION	4
7.0	POLICY DETAILS	5
8.0	REVISION APPROVAL	23

 

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Scope	This policy is to provide a comprehensive framework to guide academic staff at Universiti Tun Abdul Razak (UNIRAZAK) in their pursuit of research excellence, including the acquisition of research grants and the dissemination of research findings through publications.
Reference	TBD
Ownership	Research Management Centre
Affected Departments	All departments
Process Objective	The objectives of this policy are to: 1.       Create an enabling environment that supports and encourages high-quality research activities. 2.       Uphold the highest standards of research integrity, ethics, and academic freedom. 3.       Enhance the research capabilities of academic staff, promote interdisciplinary collaboration, and ensure that research outcomes are impactful and widely disseminated.
Definition / Abbreviation	1.      UR refer Universiti Tun Abdul Razak (UNIRAZAK). 2.      Policy steward refers to the person who is, in general, accountable for the activities being described in the internal policy and QMS document.

 

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Policy Steward: Research Management Centre

 

1. INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this policy is to provide a comprehensive framework to guide academic staff at Universiti Tun Abdul Razak (UNIRAZAK) in their pursuit of research excellence, including the acquisition of research grants and the dissemination of research findings through publications.

Recognizing the critical role that research plays in advancing knowledge, fostering innovation, and contributing to societal development, this policy aims to create an enabling environment that supports and encourages high-quality research activities. At the core of this policy is the commitment to uphold the highest standards of research integrity, ethics, and academic freedom. The Research Management Centre (RMC) at UNIRAZAK will serve as the central body providing essential support to researchers. The RMC will assist in the management and monitoring of research projects, ensuring compliance with internal and external guidelines, and facilitate the application process for external research grants.

By offering structured support and resources, this policy seeks to enhance the research capabilities of academic staff, promote interdisciplinary collaboration, and ensure that research outcomes are impactful and widely disseminated. Through this policy, UNIRAZAK reaffirms its dedication to fostering a vibrant research culture that contributes to the university's mission of achieving academic and research excellence.

 

2. VISION, MISSION AND OBJECTIVES

 

At UNIRAZAK, our commitment to research excellence is reflected in our clearly defined vision, mission, and objectives. These guiding principles form the foundation of our research endeavours, aiming to foster an environment of innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and societal impact. Our vision sets the aspiration for our research efforts, the mission outlines our approach to achieving this vision, and the objectives provide a roadmap for our strategic initiatives. Together, they underscore our dedication to advancing knowledge, addressing critical challenges, and contributing to sustainable development on a global scale.

 

• Vision

 

To be a leading university renowned for pioneering research and innovation that drives sustainable development, fosters societal progress, and enhances the quality of life globally.

 

• Mission

 

1. To cultivate a dynamic research environment that encourages academic excellence, creativity, and the pursuit of knowledge.
2. To support and empower researchers to undertake high-impact research projects that address critical societal challenges.
3. To promote interdisciplinary collaboration and partnerships with industry, government, and international institutions.
4. To disseminate research findings widely, contributing to the global body of knowledge and informing policy and practice.
   • Objectives
5. Enhance Research Capabilities:
   1. Provide robust support systems and resources to facilitate cutting-edge research.
   2. Offer training and development programs to build researchers' skills and expertise.
6. Promote Research Excellence:
   1. Encourage the pursuit of high-quality, original research that meets international standards.
   2. Recognize and reward outstanding research achievements and contributions.
7. Foster Interdisciplinary Collaboration:
   1. Create platforms and initiatives that promote collaborative research across different disciplines.
   2. Strengthen partnerships with external stakeholders, including industry, government agencies, and other academic institutions.
8. Secure Research Funding:
   1. Assist researchers in identifying and applying for external research grants and funding opportunities.
   2. Develop internal funding mechanisms to support innovative and high-potential research projects.
9. Ensure Ethical and Responsible Research:
   1. Uphold the highest standards of research integrity, ethics, and responsible conduct of research.
   2. Implement comprehensive policies and procedures to ensure compliance with ethical guidelines and regulations.

 

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1. Disseminate Research Outcomes:
   1. Support researchers in publishing their work in reputable journals and presenting at international conferences.
   2. Promote the translation of research findings into practical applications and policy recommendations.
2. Impact Society and the Economy:
   1. Encourage research that addresses local, national, and global challenges, contributing to sustainable development.
   2. Foster innovation and entrepreneurship through research that leads to the development of new technologies, products, and services.
3. Empower Postgraduate Researchers:
4. Develop mentorship programmes to guide postgraduate students, ensuring high-quality research and timely graduation.
5. Offer training programmes to enhance research skills, focusing on advanced methodologies and publication strategies.

• Encourage involvement in interdisciplinary projects to increase publication rates and research impact.

1. Provide resources to help students publish in reputable journals and present at conferences.
2. Implement measures to improve graduation rates and research contributions.

 

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3. COMMITTEES, COUNCILS AND GOVERNING BOARDS

 

The governance and management of research activities at UNIRAZAK involve various committees and councils that oversee different aspects of the research process, ensuring adherence to the highest standards of quality, ethics, and academic excellence.

 

• Senate

The Senate is the highest academic authority within the university, responsible for the formulation and approval of academic policies, including those related to research. The Senate's key functions include:

1. Approving research policies and strategies.
2. Ensuring the alignment of research activities with the university's vision and mission.

• Reviewing and endorsing major research initiatives and programmes.

1. Overseeing the academic integrity and quality of research outputs.
   • Research Management Centre (RMC)

The RMC serves as the central administrative body for research at UNIRAZAK, providing essential support and resources to researchers. The Director of the RMC reports to the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research and Partnerships). Its primary responsibilities include:

1. One-stop centre for research related matters.
2. Assisting researchers in the preparation and submission of research grant applications.

• Managing and monitoring the progress of research projects.

1. Ensuring compliance with internal and external research guidelines and regulations.
2. Facilitating the dissemination of research findings through publications and presentations.

 

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• University Research and Ethics Committee (UREC)

The UREC is responsible for the overall coordination and strategic direction of the university's research activities, including the ethical oversight of all research projects. It is chaired by Director of the RMC and consists of members appointed by the Senate. Its key functions are:

1. Developing and implementing the university's research strategy.
2. Review and approving of research proposal for UNIRAZAK internal grants.

• Reviewing and approving external research proposals and projects, ensuring adherence to ethical standards.

1. Monitoring the progress and impact of research activities.
2. Promoting interdisciplinary and collaborative research initiatives.
3. Overseeing the Ethics, which reviews research involving human and animal subjects to ensure compliance with ethical guidelines.
   • Postgraduate Studies Committee (PGSC)

The PGSC focuses on the review and enhancement of postgraduate research education and programmes. Its responsibilities include:

1. Reviewing and approving new postgraduate programmes to ensure they meet academic standards and institutional goals.
2. Evaluating and approving proposed supervisory committees for postgraduate students to ensure quality mentorship and guidance.

• Reviewing programme standards related to postgraduate programmes to maintain high academic quality.

1. Providing support and resources to postgraduate students to ensure successful completion of their research.
   • Research Programme Committee (RPC)

The RPC specifically focuses on postgraduate research programmes, ensuring they align with the university's strategic research priorities. The committee responsible to review postgraduate research programme matters and discussing them prior to approval at the PGSC. It’s responsibilities include:

1. Coordinating the development and implementation of postgraduate research programmes.
2. Arrangement of proposal and thesis defence.

• Evaluating proposed supervisory and examination committees for postgraduate students.

1. Monitoring progress of postgraduate research students.
2. Ensuring that postgraduate programmes maintain high standards of academic excellence and research quality.

 

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4. RESEARCH GRANTS

 

Research grants play a vital role in supporting and advancing research activities at Universiti Tun Abdul Razak (UNIRAZAK). This section outlines the various types of research grants available to researchers, each designed to facilitate innovative projects and enhance the university's research capabilities.

• Type of Grants

Funding for research activities at UNIRAZAK is drawn from internal and external, local and international sources, from both the public and private sectors. As such, researchers are encouraged to apply or bid for funding from these sources.

 

• UNIRAZAK Research Grant (URRG) (Internal Grants)

The purpose of the UNIRAZAK Research Grant (URRG) scheme is to:

1. Provide funding opportunities for early career researchers to undertake research;
2. Act as a bridging fund to apply for external grants; and/or

• Foster a culture of research excellence within the university.

1. Provide funding for exploratory projects, seed funding, and pilot studies.
2. Encourage collaboration among researchers across different disciplines.
3. Enhance the university's research output and impact.

Match/provide funding in research collaboration with another international higher education institution, company, non-government organisation, association and/or agency.

• Fundamental Research Grant Scheme (FRGS)

The FRGS is a national funding initiative by Ministry of Higher Education (MoHE) aimed at supporting fundamental research activities in various fields. Key features of the FRGS include:

1. Providing financial assistance for researchers to conduct high-impact fundamental research.
2. Promoting the development of new knowledge and technologies.

 

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• Encouraging collaboration between academia and industry.

1. Supporting research that addresses national and global challenges.

• Contract Research by Agencies or Industries

Contract research involves partnerships with external agencies or industries to conduct research projects funded by these entities. This type of research grants serves to:

1. Address specific research needs of industry partners or governmental agencies.
2. Facilitate knowledge transfer and collaboration between academia and industry.

• Enhance the university's relevance and impact on societal and economic development.

1. Provide researchers with opportunities for applied research and practical solutions.

• External and International Grants

External and international grants are provided by various organizations, foundations, and governmental bodies to support collaborative and impactful research projects. These grants aim to:

1. Facilitate research collaborations across borders and disciplines.
2. Enhance the global visibility and impact of UNIRAZAK research.

• Support projects that address international challenges and contribute to global knowledge.

1. Encourage researchers to engage with international partners and funding agencies.

• Non-Funded Research

Non-funded research encompasses research activities that do not receive external or internal funding but are essential for academic and professional development. This category includes:

1. Independent research initiatives undertaken by academic staff and postgraduate students.
2. Research conducted as part of academic responsibilities or professional development.

• Collaborative projects that utilize existing resources and facilities without specific funding.

1. Initiatives aimed at enhancing knowledge dissemination and community engagement.

 

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• Management of Research Grants

 

1. Registration and Deposit

All research grants secured by the staff of UNIRAZAK must be registered with the RMC. Alternative arrangements may only be permitted with prior agreement between the researchers, the funding agency, and the university.

 

1. Procurement Procedures

The procurement procedures for assets, supplies, and services funded by government research grants shall adhere to the standard rules and regulations established by the UNIRAZAK's financial procedures. Exceptions may be allowed for other research grants if a different set of financial procedures has been officially endorsed.

 

1. Ownership of Assets

All assets procured using research grants (from all types and sources) shall be the property of UNIRAZAK. These items must be inventoried by the respective schools to ensure proper tracking and management.

1. Appointment of Research Personnel

The appointment of Research Fellows and Assistants, when budgeted for in the research grants, must be formalized through the RMC using appropriate application forms and based on a fixed remuneration scheme approved by the university.

 

1. Financial Reporting Responsibilities

Research grantees are fully responsible for meeting the financial reporting requirements set forth by the sponsoring agency. This includes timely submission of financial reports and ensuring compliance with all funding guidelines.

 

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5. PUBLICATIONS AND AUTHORSHIP

 

This policy outlines the principles and guidelines for authorship and publication of research findings at Universiti Tun Abdul Razak (UNIRAZAK). It aims to ensure that all research publications adhere to the highest ethical standards and academic integrity.

• Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to establish clear guidelines for authorship, responsibilities of authors, and proper affiliation in publications resulting from research conducted at UNIRAZAK. It is designed to promote transparency, accountability, and fairness in the dissemination of research findings.

 

• Authorship Criteria

To be considered an author on a publication, individuals must meet the following criteria:

1. Contribute significantly to the conception, design, execution, or interpretation of the research study.
2. Draft or critically revise the manuscript for important intellectual content.

• Approve the final version of the manuscript to be published.

1. Agree to be accountable for all aspects of the work, ensuring that questions related to the accuracy or integrity of any part of the work are appropriately investigated and resolved.
   • Acknowledgment of Contributions

Individuals who do not meet the criteria for authorship but have contributed to the research may be acknowledged in the publication. Contributions that may warrant acknowledgment include:

1. Technical assistance or support.
2. Administrative support.

• Data collection or management.

1. Financial support or funding.
   • Affiliation

All authors must accurately represent their institutional affiliations in publications. The following guidelines apply:

 

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1. Authors affiliated with UNIRAZAK must include their full affiliation, stating their respective school first, followed by "Universiti Tun Abdul Razak (UNIRAZAK)" and the current full address if required.
2. Authors from other institutions should clearly state their affiliations.
   • Responsibilities of Authors

Authors are responsible for ensuring that:

1. Their research adheres to ethical guidelines, including obtaining necessary approvals (e.g., ethical review for human or animal subjects).
2. All relevant funding sources are disclosed in the publication.

• The manuscript is original and not under consideration elsewhere.

1. Plagiarism is avoided, and proper citations are provided for all referenced work.
2. Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools are used responsibly, ensuring that their contributions are clearly disclosed, and that the use of AI does not lead to data fabrication, manipulation, or misrepresentation of research findings.

The corresponding author is the individual designated to communicate with the journal and manage correspondence related to the manuscript. The responsibilities of the corresponding author include:

1. Ensuring all authors are aware of and agree with the content and submission of the manuscript.
2. Managing the submission process and addressing any revisions or inquiries from the journal.

• Providing timely responses to editorial requests and maintaining communication with co-authors throughout the publication process.

1. Ensuring that the correct institutional affiliation is provided for all authors.
   • Publication Ethics

Authors must adhere to ethical standards in publishing, including:

1. Avoiding conflicts of interest and disclosing any potential conflicts.
2. Ensuring the accuracy and integrity of the research data presented.

• Respecting the confidentiality of any sensitive information.

1. Complying with all relevant guidelines and policies of the target journal or publication.

 

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• Research Impact Assessment

For the purposes of assessing research productivity and impact at UNIRAZAK, only publications where the first author is affiliated with UNIRAZAK will be considered in performance evaluations. This criterion will help to highlight the contributions of UNIRAZAK researchers and ensure that their work is recognized appropriately.

• Dispute Resolution

In cases of authorship disputes, the following process will be followed:

1. Authors should attempt to resolve disputes through direct communication.
2. If unresolved, the matter should be brought to the attention of the RMC for mediation.

• The RMC may involve the UREC if necessary.
  • Compliance

All researchers and authors affiliated with UNIRAZAK are required to comply with this policy. Failure to adhere to the guidelines may result in academic misconduct investigations and consequences as deemed appropriate by the university.

 

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6. ETHICS IN RESEARCH
   • Introduction

This policy outlines the ethical obligations of researchers at UNIRAZAK and promotes awareness of ethical principles in research. All research must consider its purpose, funding sources, methods, and broader impact. Researchers must clearly articulate potential risks and ensure informed consent from all parties involved, including research degree students, taught postgraduate students, and undergraduates engaged in projects.

 

• Ethical Principles and Dilemmas

Researchers at UNIRAZAK must engage with the following ethical principles as part of their research process:

1. Respect for Rights: Researchers must respect the physical and personal autonomy of human participants, ensuring participation is based on fully informed consent and guaranteeing privacy.
2. Justice: Fair treatment of all individuals involved in research is essential. Researchers should weigh competing claims and interests while considering the moral justification for differential treatment.

• Balancing Values: Conflicting ethical principles may arise, requiring researchers to make difficult judgments and seek impartial advice when needed.
  • Ethical Problems and Issues

The use of information technology in research raises common ethical and legal challenges. Researchers must operate within legal frameworks and address ethical concerns regarding offensive materials and academic freedom. Academic freedom and free speech are crucial to research but must be balanced with the ethical principles established in this policy.

 

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7. RESEARCH INTEGRITY AND MISCONDUCT

 

Each member of the UNIRAZAK community has a responsibility to cultivate an environment that promotes intellectual honesty and integrity, where misconduct in any aspect of research or scholarly endeavour is not tolerated. Research misconduct undermines the standards we aim to instil in our students, damages the public’s esteem for academic science, and threatens the financial support from government and other sponsors for academic research. The importance of integrity in research cannot be overstated.

• Applicability and Definitions

UNIRAZAK’s definition of research misconduct and the procedures for investigating and reporting allegations align with the regulations of relevant federal funding agencies. This policy applies to research proposed, conducted, or reported at UNIRAZAK by individuals affiliated with the university, including academic staff, students, postdoctoral researchers, visiting researchers using university resources, and those with consulting appointments or other research-related titles.

 

The policy also extends to research proposed, conducted, or reported elsewhere by UNIRAZAK-affiliated individuals as part of their duties. Furthermore, at the university's discretion, it applies to research where claims of affiliation with UNIRAZAK are made.

 

• Definitions
  • Research Misconduct

“Research misconduct” is defined as fabrication, falsification, plagiarism, or other practices that significantly deviate from accepted standards within the research community for proposing, conducting, or reporting research. This definition excludes honest errors or differences in data interpretation or judgment. Additionally, retaliation against anyone who reports or provides information about suspected misconduct in good faith is also considered research misconduct.

 

• Inquiry

An inquiry involves preliminary information-gathering and fact-finding to assess whether an allegation or apparent instance of

misconduct has merit. The inquiry’s outcome determines whether a formal investigation is warranted.

 

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• Investigation

An investigation is a formal examination and evaluation of relevant facts to ascertain whether misconduct has occurred.

 

• Individual Reporting Responsibility

Individuals who believe that an act of research misconduct has occurred or is occurring are encouraged to notify the dean of the respective schools. The dean will initiate an inquiry and inform the Director of the RMC, who acts on behalf of the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research and Partnerships). Reporting such concerns in good faith serves the university and the broader academic community and will not jeopardize the reporting individual’s employment.

 

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8. RESEARCH OUTPUT POLICY
   • Patent Policy
9. All potentially patentable inventions conceived by academics, staff, or student employees during their university duties or with significant use of university resources must be disclosed to the university promptly. Ownership of these inventions is assigned to the university, regardless of funding sources.
10. The university will share royalties from inventions with the inventor(s).

• Inventors may place their inventions in the public domain if it benefits technology transfer and does not violate any related agreements.

1. If the university decides not to patent or license an invention in a timely manner, it may reassign ownership to the inventors upon request, subject to relevant agreements.
2. The Vice Chancellor may grant waivers to this policy on a case-by-case basis, considering university obligations to sponsors and technology transfer interests.
3. The patent policy extends to graduate, undergraduate, and postdoctoral fellows, as well as non-employees involved in research projects, requiring timely disclosure of inventions and assignment of ownership to the university unless a waiver is approved.

 

• Licensing

The university supports the development of inventions for public benefit. It acknowledges that patents and copyrights are often necessary to encourage industrial investment. Exclusive licenses may be granted to incentivize commercial development, while non-exclusive licenses allow multiple companies to use an invention. University research and teaching missions take precedence over patent considerations. RMC manages the evaluation, marketing, negotiations, and licensing of university-owned inventions.

 

• Copyright Policy
  • General Statement

Copyright ownership remains with the creator unless the work is a work-for-hire, funded by the university, commissioned by the university, or significantly uses university resources.

• Scholarly Works

The university does not claim ownership of scholarly or artistic works, such as dissertations and non-patentable software, created without significant university resources.

 

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• Institutional Works

The university retains ownership of works created with university funding or direction, or that are collaborative in nature.

 

• Patent and Copyright Agreement

All academic staff, support staff, students, and non-employees involved in university projects must sign the Patent and Copyright Agreement, assigning rights to copyrightable works. Royalty income from these works will be distributed according to university policy.

 

• Contractual Obligations

The copyright policy does not limit the university’s ability to fulfil contractual obligations under sponsored research agreements.

 

• Use of University Resources

University resources must only be used for university purposes. Significant use of university resources in creating copyrightable works requires disclosure to the RMC and assignment to the university.

 

• Copyright Compliance

Members of the university community must respect the rights of other copyright owners and consult the Legal Office for classroom copying policies.

 

• Sponsored Agreements

Questions regarding copyright terms in contracts or grants should be addressed to the RMC.

 

• Support Services

The RMC and the Legal Office provide advice on policy questions and assist in negotiations with third parties.

 

	Policy Title Research Policy	Doc. No. POL-RMC-01	Page 21 of 23
		Date 27/09/2024	Revision 00

 

• Other Intellectual Property
  • Trade and Service Marks

The university owns trade and service marks identifying its products and services. Consult RMC for registration and protection details.

 

• Proprietary Information

Proprietary information from university work is owned by the university, including trade secrets, which provide competitive advantages.

 

• Research Output Recognition

The university recognizes various forms of quality research output, including:

1. Externally refereed publications in reputable national and international journals.
2. Monographs, books, book chapters, and conference proceedings.

• Presentations at external conferences, seminars, and workshops.

1. In-house working papers, technical reports, and professional publications.
2. Research-based creative works and artistic performances.
3. Attracting substantial research funding.

• Successful supervision of research students to degree completion.

 

	Policy Title Research Policy	Doc. No. POL-RMC-01	Page 22 of 23
		Date 27/09/2024	Revision 00

 

9. SAFETY POLICY FOR RESEARCH

 

UNIRAZAK is committed to ensuring the health and safety of its academicians, staff, and students engaged in research activities through the following principles:

1. Health and Safety Protection: Prioritize the protection of the health and safety of all academics, staff, and students involved in research.
2. Safe Research Environments: Provide safe academic and research workplaces, including laboratories and project sites.

• Hazard Communication: Inform staff, and students about potential health and safety hazards associated with their research activities.

1. Hazard Identification: Actively identify and address health and safety hazards in research settings, encouraging academics, staff, and students to report any concerns.
2. Community Safeguards: Ensure that information and safeguards are available regarding environmental hazards arising from university research operations.

 

UNIRAZAK is dedicated to effective accident and injury prevention programs, complying with all relevant environmental, health, and safety regulations specific to research activities. Each academic staff, support staff, and student shares responsibility for maintaining good health and safety practices in their research endeavours.

 

Responsibility for health and safety in research begins with supervisors, including principal investigators, lab managers, and instructors, and extends through the management hierarchy to the Dean of Schools, Director of RMC, Deputy Vice Chancellor, and Vice Chancellor. The ultimate responsibility for health and safety policy and programs lies with the Chairman of the University.

 

The UNIRAZAK Health and Safety Committee is responsible for recommending university-wide health and safety policies specific to research, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations, monitoring the effectiveness of safety programs, and providing essential health and safety services across research areas.

 

Subject to changes when necessary.

 

	Policy Title Research Policy	Doc. No. POL-RMC-01	Page 23 of 23
		Date 27/09/2024	Revision 00

Revision Approval

Revision : 00

 

Prepared By		Reviewed By		Approved by
Name	Assoc. Prof. Ir. Ts. Dr. Mohammed Reyasudin Basir Khan	Name	Nur Anisliyana Che Ahmad	Name	Aini Juhaida Abu Samah
Designation	Director, Research Management Centre	Designation	Regulatory and Quality Assurance	Designation	Management Representative
Date	27/09/2024	Date	28/09/2024	Date	28/09/2024

 

 

6. Equity, Inclusion and Diversity (EID) Framework

Policy Steward(s): Department of Human Resources/Registrar/Student Experience

Commitment to All People
UNIRAZAK is committed to fostering a diverse society that acknowledges, respects and includes all social classes, cultures, races and minorities. We strive to create an environment that welcomes community members from all identities, backgrounds and walks of life while providing equitable opportunities for all Razakian to thrive as their authentic selves. The University celebrates this diversity and encourages their presence on campus.

UR EID Approach:

• Inventorying EID activities across campuses, academic and administrative units, and partners to determine breadth of offerings, gaps in offerings and best practices.
• Increasing recruitment of underrepresented students, faculty and staff.
• Closing gaps in graduation rates across backgrounds and identities.
• Diversifying UR faculty across all ranks and tracks.
• Creating robust communities of support for faculty, staff and students of all backgrounds.
• Creating equitable professional development and advancement opportunities for staff at all levels.
• Building platforms to support respectful discussion and debate that, while based in academic freedom and free speech, ultimately support curiosity in further understanding the lived experiences of others.
• Improving our physical, social and digital spaces are accessible and inclusive.

UR EID Aims:

• Foster a community that appreciates, respects and celebrates diversity
• Build a community that is equitable, diverse and inclusive
• Create a community where every individual feels safe, supported, respected and a sense of belonging
• Shape a network of thriving communities where systemic issues of inequality and disadvantage, intolerance, discrimination and violence do not exist

UR EID Plan (2024-2030):

• Training staff and faculty to cater and support special needs and underrepresented students
• Upgrade campus and facilities to provide equal chance education for students of special needs and underrepresented groups
• Establish career development centre and advisor for underrepresented groups and special needs students
• Maintain and further improve the university’s equity, Inclusion and diversity ecosystem

Our work in equity, diversity and inclusion is about moving forward and progressing together as a University and a community.

Subject to changes when necessary.
Date Approved: 26 April 2024
Date Published: 1 June 2024
Effective Date: 1 June 2024

 

7. Water Conservation Policy

Policy Steward(s): Department of Property Maintenance & Administration

UNIRAZAK is committed to creating awareness on the importance of water conservation and water management for the benefit of the university, community, environment and beyond.

Our approach towards a greener future includes:

• Efficient facility management
• Place notices in washrooms as a reminder to students, staff and guests to use water responsibly and to ensure that taps are not left running
• Regularly check pipes and faucets for leaks
• Provide a publicly accessible link for staff/student/guest to report suspected leakage
  CLICK HERE
• Awareness campaigns
• Actively promote educational programmes and awareness campaigns related to water conservation
• Continuous improvement
• Monitor water usage across the university and its affiliates to analyse consumption trends and identify areas for improvement.

Subject to changes when necessary.
Date Approved: 26 April 2024
Date Published: 1 June 2024
Effective Date: 1 June 2024

 

8. Transportation Policy

Policy Steward(s): Department of Property Maintenance & Administration

UNIRAZAK Transportation Policy aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), promoting sustainability through eco-conscious mobility. Through education and active transportation promotion, we advocate for responsible and sustainable transportation practices for the future and beyond.

The university supports sustainable transportation options among students, staff, and guests, encompassing carpooling, public transport and more. University-owned vehicles are available for group visits, further encouraging carpooling among attendees. University-owned vehicles are also regularly serviced to ensure low-carbon emission.

In pursuit of sustainable development, the University has implemented various programmes to aid in the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. For example, vehicle parking on campus is chargeable and limited in number in order to encourage the use of more energy saving options such as public transport and car-pooling.

UNIRAZAK has implemented flexible work arrangements for both staff and students, allowing for flexible commuting hours to reduce commuting frequency.

Regular educational campaigns and seminars will be organised to raise awareness about sustainable transportation choices and their positive impact on the environment.

Subject to changes when necessary.
Date Approved: 26 April 2024
Date Published: 1 June 2024
Effective Date: 1 June 2024

 

9. Energy Conservation Policy

Policy Steward(s): Department of Property Maintenance & Administration

Purpose:
To establish guidelines and practices that will lower the University's energy consumption, reduce expenditures on energy, and support greenhouse gas reduction goals.

Scope:
The policy is applicable to all UNIRAZAK employees and students.
This policy is applicable to all UNIRAZAK owned, leased and rented facilities at all locations.

Policy:

Lighting

• Employees and students shall make every effort to reduce the amount of energy associated with lighting in all University facilities by:
  • Turn lights off in unoccupied spaces.
  • Discontinuing the use of incandescent lighting wherever more efficient lighting is possible such as when compact fluorescent or light emitting diode (LED) bulbs can be used.
  • Maximizing the use of natural light and turning off all nonessential lighting whenever possible.
  • Utilizing task lighting in lieu of overhead lighting when appropriate.
• Personal safety shall not be compromised from lighting energy reduction decisions.

Interior Environment

• Every effort will be made to maintain the occupied temperature in all University facilities at 20 Degrees Celsius. This excludes areas that currently are not heated or cooled and areas with special environmental needs.
• Employees and students with manual control of the equipment that heats or cools their space shall operate the equipment so that the least amount of energy is consumed (example, operate window air conditioning units only when the spaces are occupied).
• Every effort will be made to improve the utilization of our buildings by consolidating activities from lower utilized buildings into higher utilized buildings. This will allow building ventilating and air conditioning system run times to be reduced, resulting in energy savings.

Computers

• Computer power management software shall be enabled to minimize the operation and consumption of electricity when computers are not in use. This excludes computers performing unique computational functions.
• Peripheral equipment shall be turned off whenever possible.

Office Equipment

• All powered office equipment shall be turned off or placed in standby when not in use, unless it is detrimental to the operation of the equipment to do so. Items such as copiers, printers, calculators, shredders, etc., should be turned off at the end of the work day.
• Office equipment quantities shall be reduced through consolidation to central locations for shared use whenever possible.

Appliances

• Employees
  • Non-University provided appliances (such as coffee makers, refrigerators, freezers, microwaves, toasters, lamps and televisions) may only be used if approved by the department head or supervisor in charge of the area.
  • The quantities of University purchased appliances shall be reduced through consolidation to central locations for shared use whenever possible.
  • All new or replacement appliances purchased with University funds are required to be Energy Efficiency labeled unless specifically approved by the responsible budget executive.
  • All appliances shall be turned off when not in use, unless it is detrimental to do so (for example a refrigerator or freezer).
• Students
  • All appliances shall be turned off when not in use unless it is detrimental to do so (for example a refrigerator or freezer).
  • Students are encouraged to use energy efficient appliances.

Responsibilities:
University Employees and Students - are responsible for:

• Recognizing that energy conservation is important to the University's fiscal health and environmental goals.
• Complying with the policy.
  • Take actions to conserve energy and reduce energy waste.
  • If employees or students have ideas on energy conservation or wish to report energy waste, they should:
    • In Office/Administrative areas – inform the responsible conservation executive or designee.

Subject to changes when necessary.
Date Approved: 26 April 2024
Date Published: 1 June 2024
Effective Date: 1 June 2024

 

 

HIGHLIGHTS FROM SENATE REPORTS BASED ON THE FOLLOWING MEETINGS:

 

   (1) Ordinary Senate Meetings (OSM)

1. No. 04/24 (258) on Thursday, 26 April 2024
2. No. 05/24 (259) on Friday, 31 May 2024

• No. 06/24 (260) on Thursday, 27 June 2024

1. No. 07/24 (261) on Thursday, 25 July 2024
2. No. 08/24 (262) on Thursday, 22 August 2024
3. No. 09/24 (263) on Friday, 27 September 2024

 

(2) Special Senate Meetings (SSM)

1. No. 02/24 (120) on Monday, 6 May 2024
2. No. 03/24 (121) on Friday, 14 June 2024

• No. 04/24 (122) on Tuesday, 9 July 2024

 

• Approval of Results

 

• Final examination results for CFS, BRSBITE, TASSGPS, SEH, SAT & TRGS (for Main Campus, RCs & URCC) for July & March 2024 semester.
• Approval of the APEL.C results - 1 student, applied credits for 2 TRGS courses (July 2024 Semester):

1. Marketing Management (GMKT5213)
2. Organizational Behavior (GMGT5173)

• Approval of pending results for CFS, BRSBITE, TASSGPS, SEH, SAT & TRGS upon completion of Special Examination, Internship/Practical Training, CPA and ‘I’ (Incomplete) cases for March 2023 - November 2023 & March 2024 Semesters.
• Approval of results after rechecking of final exam script for:
• SAT course (March 2024 Semester):

1. Cost and Management Accounting (AACT3223)

• Approval of results for TRGS courses (November 2023 Semester):

1. Data Mining (GMDS5223)
2. Investment Management (GFIN5413)

 

• Endorsements of Completion

 

• 23^rd Convocation (year 2024)
  • A total of 107 students have fulfilled the conditions for the completion of the Foundation programme for March 2024 S
  • A total of 67 students have fulfilled the conditions for the completion of the Foundation programme for July 2024 S
  • A total of 1066 graduating students for PhD programmes (47 students), Masters programmes (362 students), Postgraduate Diploma (22 students), Bachelor’s programmes (530 students), Advanced Diploma (37 students) and Diploma (68 students) have been endorsed by Senate.

 

• Programmes

 

1. Changes / Revisions of Programmes

1. New Master of Education (Conventional and ODL) Programme by Coursework: The programme is expected to be implemented by the March 2025 semester, following the second module timeline.
2. New PhD in Education (ODL): The programme is expected to be implemented by the March 2025 semester

• New Specialization for Bachelor of Business Administration: Management Accounting: for Conventional and Open and Distance Learning (ODL) modes for November 2024 offering.

 

• Academic Partners

1. External Examiner/External Advisor

No.	Name	Details	Remarks
1	Dr. Azrain Nasyrah Binti Mustapa	·      External Examiner for the Bachelor of Business Management (Entrepreneurship) (Honours). ·      Senior Lecturer/Programme, Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM)	Ordinary Senate Meeting No. 04/24 (258), 26 April, 2024
2	Prof. Dr. Faizah Idrus	·      External Examiner for Doctor of Philosophy in Education (PhD in Edu) – ODL, Master of Education (MEDU) – ODL and Conventional. ·      Professor,  International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM)	Ordinary Senate Meeting No. 05/24 (259), 31 May, 2024
3	Prof. Dr.  Ong Eng Tek	·      External Examiner for Bachelor of Education (Honours) and Postgraduate Diploma in Education ·      Professor, UCSI University
4	Dr Nor Mashitah binti Mohd Radzi	·      External Examiner for Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Bachelor of Education (ECE) programmes. ·      Senior Lecturer, Universiti Perguruan Sultan Idris (UPSI)
5	Dr. Ahmad Zulfadhli Bin Khairuddin	·      External Advisor for Doctor of Philosophy in Education (PhD in Edu) – ODL, Master of Education (MEDU) – ODL and Conventional. ·      Senior Lecturer, UiTM Puncak Alam
6	Prof Jeyapalan Kasipillai	·      External Examiner for Bachelor in Taxation (Honours) ·      Professor and Chair of Malaysian Business at Monash University Malaysia	Ordinary Senate Meeting No. 06/24 (260), 27 June, 2024
7	Dr. Mohd Fairuz A. Razak	·      External Advisor for all SAT programmes ·      Managing Partner, Far Management Services (FARMSE), Salwa, Fairuz & Co.	Ordinary Senate Meeting No. 09/24 (263), 27 September, 2024
8	Dr. Vincent Ng Kim Sheng	·      External Advisor for DBA programme ·      Dean, SEGI University
9	Dr. Lau Kui Ling	·      External Advisor (Academic) for Bachelor of English (Honours) ·      Senior Lecturer, Universiti Malaya (UM)
10	Nurul Athirah Mohd Khaidir	·      External Advisor (Industry) for Bachelor of English (Honours) ·      Communications Executive/Technical Writer, Petronas Kuala Lumpur
11	Dr. Trianna Rosli	·      External Examiner for DBA programme ·      Senior Lecturer and Program Leader (DBA) Asia Pacific University of Technology and Innovation (APU)
12	Associate Prof. Dr. Jugindar Singh	·      External Examiner for MIM programme ·      Associate Professor, Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU)
13	Dr Mazuwin Binti Haja Maideen	·      External Advisor for MIM programme ·      Senior Lecturer, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM)

 

1. Programme Director

No.	Name	Details	Remarks
1	Professor Dr Siri Roland Xavier	·      Programme Director for DBA programme ·      Professor, Tun Razak Graduate School (TRGS) UNIRAZAK	Ordinary Senate Meeting No. 09/24 (263), 27 September, 2024

 

• Other Matters

 

1. Teaching & Learning
2. Collaboration between the School of Accounting and Taxation (SAT), UNIRAZAK with OM International (Private) Limited (OMI)
   • This is a collaborative arrangement with an oversea partner in Pakistan, focusing on candidates interested in the Bachelor in Accounting (Honours) programme.
   • OMI candidates will be granted the 3-year Bachelor in Accounting (Honours) degree upon successful completion of all required credits.

 

1. Update from UR Accredited Centre (URAC) – TVET
   • URAC's total student population has grown from 42 to 153 in the last five months. SDURAC also announced that nine students from the first cohort of the DKM Early Childhood Education, will join the 2024 convocation ceremony.

 

SLaPB Sistem Latihan Program Bertauliah	SLDN Sistem Latihan Dual Nasional	OTHERS
(a)  Accounting – Single tier (b)  Early Childhood Care & Development Supervision – Modular (c)  Computer System Administration – Single tier (d)  Photography - Multi-tier (e)  Interactive Multimedia Design – Single tier	(a)  Insurance Services Administration (b)  Administrative Management	(a)  SLDN Induction Course (b)  International Accredited Centre (c)  PERMATA - TASKA Child Care and Early Education Course (d)  SLDN Coach Training Programme

• new programme offerings for the year 2024

 

• URAC also planned to introduce new programme options, such as Pre-School Education in July 2024 and Aesthetic Services in August 2024, both of which will be available at the SKM level. Additionally, URAC will be known as Akademi TVET UNIRAZAK (ATUR) commencing July 2024.

• Amendment of Table 4 for Bachelor of Management (Honours) Majoring in Sports Management: One (1) change in Table 4 to meet the required Bloom Taxonomy and learning outcome standard. The proposed change is applicable to both Conventional and the ODL programmes.

1. Amendment of Table 4 for Diploma in Sports Management: One (1) change in Table 4 to meet the required Bloom Taxonomy and learning outcome standard. The proposed change is applicable for Conventional mode only.
2. Amendments of the Programme Structure, Sequence and Table 4 for Diploma in Management (DIM):
   • The School has been advised to make some changes with regards to the current structure of the Diploma in Management to enable students to get a 50% credit transfer into the Bachelor Management (Honours) specialising in Sports Management.
   • Three (3) changes were proposed to the course structure and Table 4 to meet the required standard. The proposed changes are applicable to both Conventional and the ODL programmes.
3. Change of Course Mapping for Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) Programme: Several courses from the PGDE programme have been amended to align with specific compliance requirements. The changes include adjustments to the CLO-PLO mapping to ensure adherence to the necessary standards.

• Amendment of Assessment Components for Qualitative Research Method Course in PhD in Education Programme: To align with all the other courses in the PhD in Education programme, as well as the PhD programme assessment structure in TRGS in general, the assessment structure is proposed to be revised by removing the final assessment component to a full coursework (100% coursework).
• New Programme: Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) - Conventional and ODL modes.

1. To comply with the Compliance Audit feedback from MQA regarding the programme name change as follows:

Description	Current Programme Details	New Programme Details
Name	Bachelor of English (Honours)	Bachelor of English Language (Honours)
NEC Code & Field	0114 – Educator Training with Subject Specialization	0231 – Language Acquisition

 

1. Independent Learning (IL) Mode – (MOOC-based Courses) allows flexibility for students to learn at any time and take control of their time and skill management.
2. UROX+: MOOC and Independent Learning Courses Portal to offer short-term programmes in UNIRAZAK. Initial roll-out of UROX+ with two (2) MPU subjects, KIAR & Media & Society, commencing in November 2024Semester.

 

2. Examination Matters
3. Open and Distance Learning (ODL) Examination Policy - applicable before, during, and after the final exam, and also covers compliance and enforcement.
4. Before the Final Examination

• Eligibility and Registration: Students must ensure they are eligible and registered for the examination as per the course requirements. Examination schedules will be provided at least two weeks before the examination date.
• Technical Requirements: Students experiencing technical difficulties may opt to come to campus to take their exams in the computer lab. However, they must notify the Examination Unit at least two working days in advance to allow for proper arrangements.
• Software Installation and Testing: Students should attend a mandatory practice test conducted by their respective lecturers at least once prior to the actual examination date, to ensure all technical aspects are functioning correctly.
• Examination Environment: The examination environment must comply with the institution’s guidelines, which include a clean desk with no other electronic devices except one being used for the examination e.g., desktop, laptop, iPad.
• Examination Paper: Online Examination will be made available to students in the course card of respective courses in UROX minimum 3 days before the examination date.
• During the Final Examination
• Identification and Login: Students must log in to the UROX using their official student credentials. Students will be taken from UROX to the Lockdown Browser to proceed with the examination.
• Conduct and Behavior: The use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools or software for assistance during the examination is strictly prohibited. Its usage is considered as an academic misconduct/offense.
• Monitoring and Invigilation: Examinations will be monitored using the Respondus Monitor, which restricts access to other websites and applications. The examination will be recorded via webcam for review.
• Technical Issues: If an issue cannot be resolved promptly, students may be allowed to reschedule their examination in accordance with the institution’s policies. This is subject to an official approval from the University, upon completion of an internal review process.

1. After the Final Examination:

• Submission of Examination Answers: Late submissions will not be accepted unless there are verified technical issues and with lecturer’s permission.
• Review and Plagiarism Detection: Any suspicious activity or violations detected during the examination review will be investigated according to the institution’s disciplinary procedures and the students involved will be contacted for the next action including a meeting with the University Disciplinary Committee.
• Results and Feedback: UNIRAZAK will specify a timeframe for the release of exam results as per its academic calendar. Opportunities for review or appeal will be provided as per the institution’s guidelines.
• Appeals and Grievances: Students who wish to appeal their examination results or have grievances regarding the examination process must submit their appeal in writing within 10 working days from the date of result publication.

1. Compliance and Enforcement:

• All students must comply with this examination policy. Non- compliance may result in disciplinary action, including nullification of examination results, possible suspension from the programme and expulsion from the university.
• The use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools, software, or any other form of automated assistance during the examination is strictly prohibited.
• Any use of AI to generate, assist, or modify examination responses will be considered a violation of academic integrity and will be subject to potentially severe disciplinary action.

 

3. Administrative Matters
4. QS Stars University Rating Requirements in Good Governance:

• Various initiatives were taken by DVC ACES, with the objective of improving UNIRAZAK’s governance and transparency
• The initiatives under the Good Governance Category includes setting up an Ethics Committee, inviting a student representative to take part in the University’s governing meetings and maintaining the institution’s female leadership count.

1. Non-Related Field Candidate’s Suitability Assessment (Rigorous Internal Assessment) for the Admission to the TRGS Programmes

No	Case	Action Plan
1	·      Non-related field of study ·      CGPA (2.00 and above)  ·      With relevant 5 years working experiences	Rigorous internal assessment (interview)
2	·      Non-related field of study ·      CGPA (2.00 and above)  ·      Without relevant 5 years working experiences	Rigorous internal assessment (interview) + two (2) to ten (10) Coursera modules   *The subjects that students should take will be determined by the results of the interviews.

• The Candidate Suitability Assessment Form can only be filled out by the Dean, Registrar, Director of Marketing, TRGS academic and administrative staff (Deputy Dean of Operations and faculty coordinator), and will be retained in the student's file.
• Board of Governance’s Feedback on QS Stars:
• UNIRAZAK must prioritize enhancing four key categories: Social Impact, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Academic Development, and Global Engagement. Presently, the achievements in these areas fall short of the benchmark Minimum Points required for a 5-star rating.
• The University should increase social impact research and publication output among its academic staff. A feasible strategy involves transforming suitable MBA dissertations and PhD theses into journal publications.
• Integrating assignments and group work with industry partnerships, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and fostering community engagements specifically for the Social Impact category were proposed. These initiatives could be incorporated into both curriculum and co-curricular activities, allowing for physical, online, and hybrid formats.
• BOG members have approved 13 policies, each of which will require further refinement to incorporate their respective Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). This task will be carried out collaboratively by ACES, RQA, RO, and the policy owners.
• BOG also emphasized the importance for UNIRAZAK to create and enforce an anti-bribery and corruption policy. This is not only to fulfil a criterion in the QS Stars exercise but also to foster a positive work culture within the university. The responsibility for implementing this policy is under Human Resources (HR).
• the goalpost has shifted, requiring us to aim for a 5-star rating during a 2025 submission, utilizing data from 2024.

1. UNIRAZAK Research Policy - The implementation of this policy will support researchers in navigating the complexities of the research process, ensuring compliance with ethical and regulatory standards.
2. UNIRAZAK Research Forms - a set of standardized forms and guidelines to facilitate the smooth administration of various aspects of research. These include participation in academic conferences, journal fee payments, competition entries, and GRA management.

 

4. Student Affairs Matters

 

1. Students Official Dress Code “Dress to Impress, Address to Progress”.
   • The implementation is to promote professionalism, create a positive learning environment, ensure safety, respect diversity, prevent disruptions, prepare students for professional settings, preserve tradition and identity, comply with health and safety standards, and minimize social pressure.
   • “Dress to Impress, Address to Progress” is proposed to be the theme for our new dress code implemen
   • Effective by July 2024 semester.

 

 

• End of Report for Senate Highlights -

HIGHLIGHTS FROM ETHICS COMMITTEE REPORTS BASED ON THE FOLLOWING MEETINGS:

I. No 01/24 (01) on 30 July 2024
II. No 02/24 (02) on 22 August 2024
III. No 03/24 (03) on 27 September 2024
IV. No 04/24 (04) on 24 October 2024
V. No 05/24 (05) on 26 November 2024
VI. No 06/24 (06) on 19 December 2024
VII. No 01/25 (07) on 15 January 2025
VIII. No 02/25 (08) on 28 February 2025
IX. No 03/25 (09) on 27 March 2025
X. No 04/25 (10) on 24 April 2025
XI.No 05/25 (11) on 22 May 2025
XII. No 06/25 (12) on 18 June 2025

(a) Student Affairs Matters
Throughout the year, the Ethics Committee reviewed several student-related issues concerning welfare, conduct, academic integrity, and mental health.

1. Accommodation Concerns: Recurring complaints were received regarding the quality of student hostels managed by external agents. The Student Experience Department (SXD) recommended a formal review to ensure basic living standards are met and sustained.
2. Student Discipline: Several disciplinary cases were noted, including a theft incident involving a TVET student, which was resolved through counseling and follow-up engagement. More significantly, 42 academic misconduct cases were reported during the July 2024 examinations— predominantly from conventional programmes—with one case from the Open and Distance Learning (ODL) stream. In response, SXD proposed a new SOP for ODL assessments and recommended stricter exam protocols across all programmes.
3. Mental Health & Wellbeing: There was a marked rise in suicide-related incidents involving students, including attempted overdoses and dangerous behaviour from high elevations. Although some of the students were academically stable, many incidents stemmed from personal struggles such as family issues, financial hardship, and scams. The committee emphasized the importance of targeted mental health support, proactive student monitoring, and stronger peer referral systems. The Jiwa Damai counselling initiative continues to be a key support channel.
4. Ethics and Behaviour: The committee also addressed growing concerns around student conduct in public spaces, particularly in regard to inappropriate displays of affection. SXD was urged to integrate values-based education, including adab, respect, and safe sex awareness, into orientation and engagement programmes. Furthermore, internship rejections due to failed health screenings highlighted the need for earlier health awareness and interventions. These cases underscore the importance of fostering a culture of personal responsibility and ethical maturity among students.

(b) Faculty Matters
Several ethical and governance-related issues were raised regarding academic staff conduct.

1. Governance Participation: Staff were reminded of their obligations to attend key university governance meetings (e.g., Senate, PGSC, ACC), with clear expectations to notify in advance of absences. Nonmembers presenting papers were advised to attend only during relevant segments. Attendance by designated representatives must receive prior approval from the Vice Chancellor.
2. Assessment Ethics: Concerns were raised about faculty professionalism; particularly around inconsistent grading practices and ad hoc adjustments made after final exams. These practices were seen as undermining academic integrity. The DVCA recommended ethics-focused training and stricter enforcement of continuous assessment protocols.
3. Data Protection: All academic and administrative staff were reminded to observe the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA) in all forms of communication and document handling.

(c) Other Institutional Matters

1. Conflict of Interest in Results Endorsement: Cases involving staff members with familial ties to enrolled students were identified during the examination results endorsement process. The committee recommended the introduction of a formal Conflict of Interest Policy and the exclusion of affected staff from related processes.
2. External Communications Protocol: To safeguard institutional reputation and ensure message consistency, it was agreed that all external communications be centralized through an official university spokesperson. The Branding and Communications Department is designated as the primary liaison for public-facing communications. No other staff members are allowed to provide sensitive information on occurring university issues.

Prepared by: Nur Izzatil Akmal Bt Muhamad Bustaman (Secretary)
Approved by: Prof. Datin Paduka Dr. Samsinar Md Sidin (Chairperson)
Date: 23 June 2025
Date: 24 June 2025

 

Risk Management Plan

Version 1.0 - 2020

Updated 2.0 - 2023

 

Introduction

Risk-taking, a fundamental driver of innovation and progress, is crucial for higher education institutions like Universiti Tun Abdul Razak (UNIRAZAK) in their pursuit of excellence, a strong reputation, and sustainable success. At UNIRAZAK, risk management is a vital process focused on identifying, assessing, and evaluating potential risks. By implementing appropriate controls, this approach ensures risks are minimized effectively, enabling the institution to achieve its strategic objectives with confidence.

 

 

Risk Management Policy

UNIRAZAK is committed to maintaining a safe and secure environment for its students, employees, and guests. This dedication is demonstrated by adopting recommended best practices, where practical, to identify, assess, and implement cost-effective measures for risk control. The primary objective is to ensure risks are either eliminated or reduced to an acceptable level.

 

Risk Management Objectives

• Minimize uncertainty to support the achievement of the university’s goals.
• Contribute to the successful implementation of the university's strategic plan.
• Enhance decision-making through reliable risk insights.
• Ensure optimal and efficient use of resources.
• Establish a consistent framework for identifying, analysing, and addressing risks.
• Foster a culture of constructive self-assessment and continuous improvement within the institution.

 

 

Application of the Policy

This Policy applies to all staff of the University.

• Staff refers to all individuals working at the University, including permanent, fixed-term, and temporary employees, active retired research staff, visiting research or teaching staff, subsidiary company staff, workers, trainees, seconded staff, agency personnel, agents, volunteers, interns, and anyone else working within the University.

 

 

	Likelihood
Consequence	Rare	Unlikely	Possible	Likely	Almost Certain
Severe	M	H	H	S	S
Major	L	M	H	H	S
Moderate	L	M	M	H	H
Minor	L	L	M	M	M
Insignificant	L	L	L	L	M

 

 

RISK RATING – MANAGEMENT ACTION REQUIRED

 

S	Extreme risk – immediate attention & response needed; requires a risk assessment & management plan prepared by relevant senior managers for Vice Chancellor; risk oversight by the Senior Management Team
H	High risk - risk to be given appropriate attention & demonstrably managed; reported to Vice Chancellor as necessary.
M	Medium risk - assess the risk; determine whether current controls are adequate or if further action or treatment is needed; monitor & review locally.
L	Low risk - manage by standard operating procedures (SOP); report to managers; monitor & review locally as necessary.

 

	Impact areas and consequences
General impact description	Teaching & Learning	Research	Human Resources	Brand & Reputation	Legal & Compliance	Finance
Severe: Impact is widespread and disastrous to the University. Management effort to manage at VC/DVC level.	• Unsustainable loss / reduction in student enrolment / retention. • Loss of a School. • Serious / sustained problems reaching students or teaching targets.	• Serious reduction in research activity / output. • Irreparable impact on relationship with partners / collaborators.	• Death / permanent disability / life-changing impairment. • Loss of staff / expertise or situations which disrupts services causing an extreme consequence.	• Irreparable and sustained damage of brand / reputation. • Widespread / sustained negative media attention. • Loss of confidence by the Government and community.	• Significant breach of laws or contracts leading to penalties or fines. • Risk to funding, approvals, accreditations, or licensing, with potential conditions. • Possibility of litigation, including criminal or civil legal proceedings.	• Severe financial impact at the enterprise level. • Major budget implications with no ability to adjust within current resources. • External funding, either temporary or permanent, would be required.
Major: The impact is broad, manageable in the short term, but requires enterprise-level management effort.	• Major loss / reduction in student enrolment / retention. • Loss of a Faculty. • Major problems meeting students or teaching targets.	• Major impact on research activity over a sustained period. • Major long-term damage to partnership / collaboration.	• Significant injury or illness, which the person cannot recover in 6 months. • Loss of staff / expertise or situations which disrupts services causing a major consequence.	• Sustained damage to brand/reputation. • Significant slide in ranking • Long-term negative media coverage.	• Major breach of contract, regulations, or consent conditions. • Regulatory scrutiny, including investigations, audits, or enforceable actions. • Risk of prosecution, large fines, or unlawful conduct allegations.	• Financial impact at the enterprise level. • Would necessitate the use of available cash reserves to allocate unbudgeted funds. • Significant adjustments or cancellations to approved projects or programs would be required.
Moderate: Impact would require a coordinate management effort.	• Significant loss / reduction of number of students. • Loss of important academic course. • Significant problem meeting teaching targets.	• Significant impact on research activity over a sustained period. • Significant but short-term damage to partnership.	• Significant injury or illness, which the person can recover fully in 6 months. • Loss of staff / expertise or loss of staff morale resulting in a moderate consequence.	• Significant but short-term damage to brand/reputation. • Stakeholder / community concern / dissatisfaction. • Prominent local negative media coverage.	• Breach of contract, Act, regulation, or consent conditions. • Potential to attract regulatory review or action. • Possibility of allegations of unlawful conduct.	• Financial impact at the enterprise level. • Would necessitate the reprioritization and reallocation of enterprise-level funds.
Minor: Impact is isolated and can be absorbed with management effort.	• Short-term reduction in student enrolment / retention. • Temporary problems meeting some teaching targets.	• Minor impact on research activity.	• Minor injury or illness with quick recovery • Loss of staff / expertise resulting in a minor consequence	• Some short-term negative media coverages. • Concern raised by students / stakeholders.	• Slight non-compliance or violations of contract, Act, regulations, or consent conditions – possible corrective measures. • Could lead to improvement, prohibition, or infringement notice.	• Financial impact at the local level. • Would require monitoring or corrective action using existing resources or reallocating funds within the local area.
Insignificant: Impact can be dealt with existing controls and SOPs.	• Minor downturn in student enrolments / retention. • Minor impact on achievement of teaching targets.	• Insignificant impact on research activity	• Minimal impact on person’s health / welfare. First aid or no treatment required • Loss of staff / expertise resulting in a minor consequence.	• Minor impact to brand / reputation. • Dealt with usual communication SOP.	• Unlikely to lead to any significant regulatory action or response.	• Minimal impact on the budget or funded activities, with costs easily managed within the local area's existing budget.