MOHE vows zero tolerance for fake diploma sales

ANDREW ONG

The Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) emphasised that it will not tolerate any activities related to the sale of fake diplomas. 

MOHE was responding to the allegations regarding the sale of academic certificates from the school level to higher education, as reported by a local newspaper yesterday.

“In response to this issue, MOHE will not compromise and will take strict action against any public or private higher education institutions (IPTA/IPTS) or individuals found involved,” MOHE said in a statement. 

“MOHE remains committed to ensuring that the higher education system remains untainted and compliant with the law,” MOHE added. 

The ministry said the Higher Education Department (HED) oversees and regulates private higher education institutions (IPTS) through inspections, in line with the Private Educational Institutions Act 1996 (Act 555), to address issues related to the issuance of fraudulent certificates.

“Additionally, MOHE said it has implemented standard operating procedures to ensure the authenticity of academic certificates for public verification, MOHE added. 

MOHE has previously resolved several academic certificate fraud cases through public complaints.

“MOHE also wishes to inform that several cases of academic certificate fraud have been successfully resolved previously through public complaints. 

“These cases involved fraud syndicates deceiving victims using the names of involved institutions. Police reports will also be filed to curb these fraud syndicates,” MOHE said. 

The ministry also advises the public to remain vigilant and cautious of fraud syndicates and the sale of academic certificates.

“The ministry said the public can verify the qualifications and information regarding honorary degrees and doctoral degrees on the GREaT KPT portal at the following link: https://dohe.mohe.gov.my/award/,” said the ministry. 

Yesterday Kosmo! reported that syndicates selling fake academic certificates have become more brazen, advertising their services on social media with prices ranging from RM1,500 to RM4,000.