SHAH ALAM – The Harvard Club of Malaysia reaffirms its unwavering commitment to academic freedom, intellectual exchange and the principles that have long defined Harvard University.
As the United States (US) government moves to revoke Harvard’s ability to enroll foreign students—a decision that threatens thousands of Malaysian and international scholars—the Club stressed the importance of courage, openness and service in shaping future leaders and safeguarding the university’s legacy.
In a statement, The Harvard Club of Malaysia voiced strong support for their alma mater’s dedication to free and independent inquiry amid recent political pressures faced by Harvard University in the US.
As one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the US, Harvard has historically been a beacon for critical thinking, academic freedom and a global marketplace of ideas that attracts bright minds from around the world.
"As the oldest university in America, Harvard has long stood as a bastion for free and independent inquiry, critical thinking and the free and robust marketplace of ideas.
"Its commitment to excellence has always led it to seek out the best and the brightest, no matter where in the world they came from.
"This commitment and openness have always been a key driver of Harvard's and other top US universities’ achievements and success. In the current global environment, it becomes ever more imperative for us to broaden our perspectives, deepen our understanding and lead with courage.
"To isolate institutions of learning from the world is to undermine the very foundation of human progress,” the statement said.
The club conveyed that universities should be judged not by their histories alone, but by their courage and actions in challenging times. Harvard’s stand, according to the club, is founded on principle rather than politics.
Harvard Club of Malaysia President, Khoo Eu Wen stated that his club fully supports their alma mater’s stand and affirms their commitment to openness, inquiry and service.
"These principles not only define Harvard, but also our enduring role in society. We are confident that the university's ongoing commitment to its values, globalism, the rule of law and the betterment of humanity will continue to stand it in good stead, whatever the political winds of the day," Khoo said.
Khoo also drew attention to the enduring message at Harvard’s gates: ‘Enter to grow in wisdom. Depart to serve better thy country and thy kind.’
"Today, those words are not just an aspiration, they are a responsibility. And responsibility is never easy. It is tough,” Khoo stated.
According to Harvard Club of Malaysia's deputy president Krishnavenee Krishan, this concern is particularly acute for Malaysian students currently at Harvard and those recently admitted.
"We are particularly concerned about the plight of current Malaysian students at Harvard and students who have just been admitted. These are bright young Malaysians with plenty to offer Malaysia, America and the world.
"They should not be robbed of their opportunity to receive a world-class education and to make world-class contributions,” Krishnavenee said.
The backdrop to the Harvard Club of Malaysia’s statement is the recent decision by US President Donald Trump’s administration to revoke Harvard University’s Student and Exchange Visitor Program (Sevis) certification, effectively barring Harvard from enrolling new foreign students.
This move threatens thousands of students globally, including many Malaysians and poses a serious financial risk to the university.
The Department of Homeland Security, led by Secretary Kristi Noem, cited Harvard’s refusal to comply with certain government demands and alleged "unsafe campus environment” as reasons for the revocation.
Harvard condemned the action as "unlawful,” warning that it would severely disrupt the university’s academic mission and harm both its community and the country.
International students have expressed deep concern and uncertainty, with one Austrian student describing the situation as "scary and saddening” and fearing a decline in the US as a destination for higher education.
Student groups and academic associations have denounced the move as authoritarian and retaliatory, observing the vital role of international students in American academia.
A federal judge has issued a nationwide injunction halting the termination of international students’ legal status temporarily, allowing some stability while the legal process unfolds.
Universities like Columbia have also faced similar punitive actions, further highlighting the political nature of these challenges.