Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) has reminded its graduates to maintain decorum during convocation ceremonies and avoid making unconventional gestures while receiving their convocation scrolls on stage.
This comes after a TikTok video uploaded by UiTM went viral, showing examples of improper and proper etiquette during the ceremony.
Graduation ceremonies are significant milestones, marking the culmination of years of hard work and symbolizing the start of a new journey.
As graduates step onto the stage to collect their scrolls, their families and friends eagerly watch these proud moments unfold, whether in the audience or on large screens.
However, UiTM emphasized the importance of respecting the solemnity of the event. The video, filmed during the university’s 100th convocation ceremony, which began on November 13, displayed blurred images of graduates performing various gestures.
These gestures include the V-sign for victory, thumbs-up, finger hearts, waving, rockstar hand sign and even blowing kisses. While these gestures may reflect excitement and joy, UiTM clarified that such actions are considered inappropriate for the occasion.
The video highlighted the correct way to accept the scroll: receiving it with both hands, placing it by the side, smiling, and exiting the stage with steady and respectful movements.
Graduates were advised to avoid exaggerated expressions and unnecessary actions that might detract from the dignity of the event.
“Graduates are reminded not to perform such actions on stage. Please respect the graduation ceremony,” the video stated.
Since its release, the video has garnered immense attention, accumulating over 3.6 million views, 164k likes, 19k shares and 3.9k comments.
The post has sparked widespread discussion, with many viewers debating the balance between celebrating individuality and preserving tradition.
“This is a Convocation Ceremony, not a Graduation Party.”
“The convocation is a formal ceremony with its protocol. Hopefully, all students can respect that.”
While most netizens understand the need to maintain the formality, some netizens pointed out that graduates should be given more freedom as the moment was a relief to most students after studying hard for a few years.
“Just do it. You studied so hard, and then you even have to pay just to get your own certificate.”
“Swear, just do it. IT’S YOUR DAY! ONCE IN A LIFETIME AFTER ALL THAT SUFFERING AS A STUDENT!”
There were also people calling out the university, asking them to address the issue of displaying the wrong graduates’ names on screen during the convocation.
“Also, respect the names of the graduates. Don’t allow mistakes or missing names on the screen. Why is there no statement about issues like this?”
“Regarding the case of names not appearing on the screen, didn’t UiTM notice? Haha. They’ve already paid, so is there no action being taken?”
Watch the video here:
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