A university lecturer in Malaysia has gone viral on TikTok after expressing frustration over students who frequently show up late for class, warning that he may start locking the classroom door for repeat offenders.
In a video shared on TikTok by user @zahir_alauddin, the lecturer stated that being punctual reflects good time management and basic respect for educators.
‘I always arrive early’
He also used his own student experience to highlight the importance of discipline.
When I was in my fifth and sixth semester at UiTM Shah Alam, I stayed with my parents in Ampang. Even though my classes started at 8am, I always arrived early,” he shared.
“I didn’t own a car back then — I had to take the LRT, then a bus, and still walk a distance. Despite all that, I still made it on time and even completed my assignments before class started.”
He added that punctuality isn’t just about showing up — it’s a matter of respect and courtesy toward lecturers.
In the video caption, he wrote: “If anyone’s late these next few weeks, I’ll lock the door. You can sit outside.”
Mixed reactions
The lecturer’s tough stance triggered a wave of responses online. Some netizens supported his disciplinary approach, saying it would help instill time awareness among students.
“Be disciplined for 5 years so you can live comfortably for 50. Work hard, don’t be lazy, don’t make excuses.”
“Yes, even as a student, I seriously hate those who always come late 😤. There’s no excuse for being late—please manage your time!”
However, others criticised the method as harsh and outdated, arguing that modern students face different challenges compared to the past.
Some accused him of unfairly comparing his own “hardship days” to today’s realities, while others called the door-locking threat “too extreme.”
“I really hate people like this, always acting like they’re better than everyone else.”
“There are better ways to discipline students than not letting them into class. Students pay you to teach — how can you stop them from entering class just because they’re late? If they miss the lesson, that’s their loss. But no matter how late they are, it’s their right to attend class. Don’t deny that — it’s what teachers are paid for.“
Responding to the backlash in the comment section, the lecturer clarified that in his 13 years of teaching, he has never actually locked a classroom door.
He also pointed out that most universities already have clear policies on attendance — including rules that students may lose exam eligibility if they are more than 30 minutes late or absent without valid reasons three times.
