IIUM ends academic's service following controversial theories
International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) has confirmed the termination of academic Solehah Yaacob's service, effective April 27. The university's Office of Communication, Advocacy and Promotion (OCAP) issued a statement on August 23, confirming that Yaacob, who previously served as an Arabic language and linguistics academic, no longer holds the position of professor or any official role at the institution.
Restrictions on title and affiliation
According to the university's statement, Yaacob is barred from using any official title, position, or affiliation with IIUM in promotional materials, media reports, publications, advertisements, social media content, publicity materials, or any other form of public dissemination. The restriction applies both directly and indirectly, as reported by The Star. IIUM explained that the clarification was necessary to ensure accuracy in public perception and safeguard institutional integrity in academic representation across Malaysia's higher education landscape.
Background of controversy
The termination follows months of public debate over Yaacob's academic claims. In November 2025, she gained widespread attention for suggesting that ancient Romans may have learned shipbuilding techniques from Malay seafarers, a claim that went viral on social media. More recently, she presented a theory suggesting that Kedah's abundance of iron ore may have originated from meteor activity in ancient times.
These views drew criticism from the academic community and the public. Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Zambry Abdul Kadir subsequently advised university academics to avoid making claims beyond their areas of expertise. IIUM had previously stressed that Yaacob's views did not represent the university's official position.
University's response
In its statement, IIUM expressed hope that with the clarification regarding Yaacob's service status and official association with the university, confusion and future misunderstandings among the public can be avoided. The university's action reflects its commitment to maintaining professional standards in academic representation.
The case highlights the broader discussion within Malaysian higher education about the boundaries of academic freedom and the responsibilities of academics when engaging with historical and scientific topics outside their immediate field of study.