Universiti Malaysia Sabah

UMS Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Anti-Discrimination Policy

Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) fosters a campus culture rooted in mutual respect, inclusivity, and equity. In line with the principles embedded in the Perlembagaan UMS, UMS Strategic Plan 2023-2027, Integrity Circular (Pekeliling Integriti), and the UMS Quality Policy, this policy affirms the University’s commitment to ensuring that no individual is subjected to discrimination, harassment, or exclusion based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender, age, disability, socioeconomic status, nationality, or other protected characteristics.

UMS upholds this policy following the Federal Constitution of Malaysia (Article 8 – Equality), Universities and University Colleges Act 1971, Education Act 1996 (Act 550), Anti-Corruption Commission Act (MACC), Whistleblower Protection Act 2010, Statutory Bodies (Discipline and Surcharge) Act 2000 ('Act 605'), Statutory Bodies (Acts and Annual Reports) Act 1980 (ACT 240), Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) Act 2007 (Act 679), National Higher Education Fund Corporation Act 1997 (ACT 566), Official Secrets Act 1972 (Act 88), Penal Code (Act 574), Universities and University Colleges (Amendment) Act 2024, Employment Act 1955, Persons with Disabilities Act 2008, Malaysian Human Rights Commission Act 1999. Link:

https://www.ums.edu.my/ppuu/index.php/e-perundangan/akta-perlembagaan

Objectives:

UMS aims to:

1. Foster an inclusive university culture that embraces and celebrates diversity.
2. Eliminate unlawful discrimination, harassment, and victimisation.
3. Promote awareness and understanding of diversity and inclusion across the University community.
4. Comply with national legislation such as the Federal Constitution, Employment Act 1955, Persons with Disabilities Act 2008, and relevant international standards.

Scope

This policy applies to:

1. All UMS staff (permanent, contract, and temporary), students, service providers, vendors, and visitors.
2. All institutional processes, including recruitment, admissions, performance evaluation, teaching and learning, community outreach, and leadership development.

Guiding Principles

UMS is committed to upholding the following principles in all its policies, practices, and interactions:

1. a) Equality
   UMS affirms that all individuals are entitled to fair and equal treatment regardless of personal characteristics or background. Equality is not about treating everyone the same, but about ensuring equitable access to opportunities by addressing specific needs and removing barriers.

2. b) Diversity UMS recognises, values, and actively embraces the diverse identities within its community. This includes but is not limited to:
   
   1. - Age
   2. - Gender or gender reassignment
   3. - Disability (physical, sensory, intellectual, or mental health)
   4. - Race, ethnicity, and national origin
   5. - Religion or belief
   6. - Sexual orientation
   7. - Marital or civil partnership status
   8. - Pregnancy and maternity
   9. - Gender or gender reassignment
   Diversity enriches the educational environment and enhances the academic, professional, and social experiences of all members of the university.

i) Inclusion


UMS strives to ensure that every member of the university community, regardless of background, feels valued, respected, supported, and empowered to participate fully in university life. This includes inclusive teaching and learning practices, accessible facilities, and responsive support services.

ii) Anti-Discrimination


UMS adopts a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of discrimination, harassment, bullying, or victimisation. Discriminatory behaviour based on any of the protected characteristics listed above is unacceptable and will be addressed through clear policies, reporting procedures, and disciplinary measures.

Legal and Policy Framework

This policy is grounded in and supports compliance with:
1. Federal Constitution of Malaysia (Article 8) – Equality before the law.
2. Employment Act 1955 – Protection of workers’ rights.
3. Education Act 1996 – Equal access to education.
4. Persons with Disabilities Act 2008 – Rights and access for persons with disabilities.
5. Malaysian Human Rights Commission Act 1999 – Protection of fundamental human rights.
6. National Policy on Women and Gender Equality (Dasar Wanita Negara).
7. UMS Internal Policies – Including staff code of ethics, academic freedom policies, and quality assurance frameworks.

Responsibilities

1. University Management: Ensure institutional practices reflect the principles of this policy and allocate resources for its implementation.
2. Human Resource Division: Provide training, monitor compliance, and support inclusive recruitment and staff development.
3. Academic and Administrative Units: Promote inclusive practices in curriculum, student support, and decision-making.
4. All Staff and Students: Uphold respectful behaviours and report any discriminatory acts.

Implementation Measures

1. Integrate diversity and inclusion indicators into institutional audits, planning, and KPIs.
2. Conduct regular training on anti-discrimination, unconscious bias, inclusive pedagogy, and accessible service delivery.
3. Promote gender-sensitive and disability-friendly infrastructure and communication.
4. Establish clear reporting mechanisms for grievances related to discrimination and ensure non-retaliatory processes.

Reporting and Redress

1. Provide a confidential, transparent, and fair complaint mechanism for cases involving discrimination or exclusion, managed by the UMS Legal Advisor’s Office.
2. Guarantee protection from reprisal for those who report concerns in good faith.
3. Take appropriate corrective or disciplinary action in confirmed cases.
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