Dr Solehah Yaacob’s academic service at the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) officially ended on April 27, 2026 [1, 2, 3, 4]. The university clarified on August 23 that she is no longer entitled to hold any academic position or to represent IIUM in any capacity [1, 2, 3, 4]. IIUM has also prohibited her from using any titles, positions, or official affiliations related to the university in any form of communication or media [1, 2, 3, 4].
Solehah came under intense public scrutiny last year after a video in which she claimed that ancient Romans may have learned shipbuilding techniques from Malay seafarers went viral [1, 2, 3]. Her theory was based on research involving classical Arabic sources. She further proposed a controversial link between ancient Kedah’s iron ore deposits and meteor activity or extraterrestrial impacts [1, 3].
In response to the backlash, IIUM established an internal inquiry panel to examine the validity of Solehah’s historical claims [1, 2]. The university issued several clarifications aiming to prevent misunderstandings and to uphold academic integrity at IIUM [1, 2, 3, 4].
IIUM’s public statement on August 23 reiterated that Solehah has no current affiliation with the university and emphasized her barred use of any IIUM-related titles or affiliations outside the institution [1, 2, 3, 4].
