The Ku Klux Klan (KKK) is a symbol widely associated with racism, violence, and white supremacy so when students at Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) were seen wearing KKK robes during a class presentation, it understandably triggered strong reactions online.
The video, filmed at the university’s Dengkil campus, quickly went viral, prompting UiTM to clarify that the act was part of an academic assignment on racial discrimination.
As criticism grew, the university issued a statement to explain the context behind the presentation.
According to UiTM, the students were completing an assignment for their legal studies course, which focused on issues of discrimination based on skin colour.
The KKK imagery, it said, was intended as a visual tool to enhance understanding of the topic.
The costumes were part of a visual to help provide a better understanding and appreciation of the topic.”
However, the use of such a controversial symbol didn’t sit well with many Malaysians.
In the viral clip, students were seen not only wearing the white robes but also holding crucifixes, elements strongly associated with the KKK’s history of religious and racial extremism.
This raised concerns over the appropriateness of using such imagery in a classroom setting, even for educational purposes.
Acknowledging the backlash, UiTM stressed that the presentation was never meant to offend.
The university clarified that it did not find the presentation religiously insensitive and reiterated its commitment to instilling values like tolerance, respect, and cultural sensitivity within its academic environment.
We hope that this explanation will clear the air and prevent any misinterpretation of the assignment that was carried out,” the statement added.
To further address public concerns, UiTM urged Malaysians to consider the context of the situation and to view the assignment through an academic lens.
The university emphasised that such discussions are necessary for building awareness around global issues, even if the visuals used may be uncomfortable.
“UiTM urges all parties to assess incidents like this within an academic framework and not interpret them out of context, in line with the spirit of inclusive and dynamic education that underpins the nation’s higher education system.”
Who are the KKK?
For additional context, the Ku Klux Klan was founded in the United States shortly after the Civil War in 1865.
Over the decades, it evolved into one of the most well-known white supremacist hate groups in the country, responsible for countless acts of violence, including lynchings, arson, and intimidation.
The KKK primarily targeted African Americans but also directed its hatred toward Jews, Catholics, immigrants, and other minority groups.
Members are often identified by their white robes and pointed hoods, intended to instil fear and conceal their identities.
Although its influence has waned in recent years, the KKK remains a symbol of racial hatred and terror which is why its use, even in an academic context, continues to evoke such strong reactions.
