Sarawak activist slams IIUM professor’s claim linking Rentap to Hang Tuah

KUCHING (March 13): Sarawak activist Peter John Jaban has called on International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) to review the conduct of one of its academics following controversy over statements concerning Sarawak’s history.

The founder of the Dayak Rights Action Force said the university should examine recent remarks attributed to Prof Dr Solehah Yaacob, which he claimed had circulated widely and sparked concern among Malaysians, historians and members of the public.

In a statement, Peter alleged that the remarks involved “sensational and unsubstantiated historical narratives” that could mislead the public and undermine the credibility of Malaysia’s academic institutions.

He said particular concern had arisen in Sarawak over claims linking the legacy of Iban warrior Rentap, born Libau Anak Ningkan, to a broader Malay historical narrative.

Peter described the claim as historically inaccurate and said it disregarded the heritage and identity of the Iban community.

“Rentap remains a symbol of indigenous resistance and pride among the Iban people of Sarawak,” he said.

He stressed that attempts to reinterpret such figures without credible historical evidence risk distorting local history and culture.

Peter also noted that the academic making the claims is known primarily as a specialist in Arabic language and linguistics rather than a historian or anthropologist focusing on Borneo’s indigenous cultures.

According to him, presenting unverified historical assertions as fact could undermine scholarly standards and erode public trust in academic institutions.

He emphasised that universities must uphold intellectual integrity, rigorous research and evidence-based scholarship.

“Extraordinary claims made without credible historical or scientific support undermine public confidence in the academic standards of our institutions,” he said.

Peter urged IIUM to ensure its staff adhere to professional standards when making public statements, particularly on matters involving sensitive historical and cultural issues.

He added that Malaysian universities should remain committed to credible scholarship and responsible academic discourse, noting that the nation’s academic reputation must be protected.

He said Sarawakians are particularly protective of their historical figures and cultural heritage, and called on all parties to respect the discipline of history and avoid spreading narratives that could misrepresent local identities.

Attempts to obtain a response from Solehah and the university were not immediately successful at the time of his statement, Peter added.

According to a Focus Malaysia report on March 12, Solehah had claimed that Rentap was Malay and a descendant of Hang Tuah of the Malacca Sultanate.

The claim is part of a series of controversial historical assertions attributed to her.

Earlier reports had also cited her as claiming that the Romans learned shipbuilding from the Malays and that ancient Malays possessed the ability to fly.