KUALA LUMPUR, 29 December 2024 – In a shocking development, a syndicate offering honorary doctorates for as low as RM450 without any academic achievement or social contribution is spreading rapidly in Malaysia. Authorities are urged to take immediate action after it was reported that the syndicate has been targeting social media influencers, cosmetic sellers, and artists seeking false recognition.
An investigation report by Astro Awani reporter, Umarpati Ramayah, revealed that this syndicate has exploited these groups by offering honorary degrees that do not require any academic effort or achievements. The recipients only need to pay RM450, attend a photography session, and receive the award, which is falsely claimed to be prestigious. However, no genuine recognition is given for any social or academic achievements.
Initially, the syndicate used social media to promote their award ceremonies, but now they operate more cautiously and in secret. They are increasingly using a referral system and holding award ceremonies abroad to avoid attention. However, recipients of these awards still post pictures of the ceremonies on their social media, receiving praise from thousands of netizens who are deceived by these fake recognitions.
According to sources familiar with the syndicate’s operations, they initially used a ‘referral’ system where influential individuals would sponsor others to receive the honorary doctorate. After receiving negative feedback on social media, they stopped openly advertising and returned to their previous method of operation.
The syndicate is still active both in and outside of Malaysia, including in India and Singapore. In Malaysia, they are believed to hold award ceremonies every month in prominent hotels, but without any open advertisements. During a check on a website believed to be run by the syndicate, Estrawan’s reporter found that the syndicate remains active. Interested applicants are asked to contact them via email or WhatsApp, but as of now, no response has been received.
Analysts believe that the syndicate deceives the public by charging high fees for meaningless awards. Some charge up to RM10,000 for honorary degrees without any legitimate research or academic achievements.
Authorities, along with the Ministry of Higher Education, are urged to take swift action to ensure the public is not further deceived by this syndicate. Education observer Siva Prakash urges the Ministry of Higher Education to create a special platform to list recipients of honorary degrees from private institutions and foreign universities.
Concerns have also been raised about the targeting of certain groups, particularly the Indian community, who appear more easily deceived by these offers. Therefore, authorities must collaborate to investigate and curb the spread of this growing syndicate.
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