SPECIFICATIONS FOR EXPERT OPINION ARTICLES

1. Writing or opinions should be based on the field of expertise. Avoid extensively using others' opinions or providing lengthy background explanations on an issue, assuming readers already understand it. Use the "straight to the point" approach.

2. Articles are suitable for media publication if they use simple language that can be easily read and understood by all layers of society (layman terms).

3. The title font should be Arial Black, size 16, bold, uppercase. Please write 'ARTIKEL PENULISAN KEPAKARAN UPM' above the title.

4. Below the title, include the following information: author’s name, position, department, faculty, field of expertise, mobile number, and email address.

5. The body text font should be Verdana or Cambria, size 12.

6. Spacing – Single line. Space between paragraphs.

7. Use only one or two sentences in each paragraph. Avoid using more than two sentences in one paragraph.

8. Writing can be in Bahasa Malaysia or English.

9. Do not exceed 700 words.

10. Attach a mugshot or passport-style photo in a separate file.

11. Writing should emphasize problem-solving aspects of current, relevant national issues or those newly reported in the media, within the context of supporting, improving, or opposing the issue at hand. Prioritize new ideas or suggestions on how to solve existing problems, covering 30 to 50 percent of the entire article. Avoid citing other experts' opinions or widely known facts unless briefly explaining the issue's background.

12. Support the writing with solid, valid, and accurate data, facts, or examples.

13. Begin the article with sentences like the following two examples:

    a. Example of writing in conjunction with internationally recognized days by the United Nations: "(In conjunction with World Forestry Day, celebrated annually on March 3 and recognized by the United Nations, it is appropriate to reflect on our contributions and roles in local forest conservation."

    "I am compelled to offer some suggestions regarding the worsening illegal logging issue in the Lojing Forest of Gua Musang, Kelantan. This issue was highlighted by local media last February, where there are methods to address this illegal logging.)"

    b. Example of suggestions or problem-solving writing by lecturers on current national media issues over the past two weeks or an issue highlighted by a newspaper or television. Issues based on personal experiences that have impacted a major current issue are also allowed (Non-current issues are not encouraged as they are difficult to publish).

    "I refer to a report titled 'Methods of Handling Covid-19 – How Prepared Are We?' written by Prof Ismadi Ismail from Universiti Sains Malaysia, published by Sinar Harian in the Opinion section on March 20."

    "Here, I disagree with some of Prof Ahmad's suggestions because several of his recommendations seem to backfire on the efforts of the Ministry of Health."

14. A brief and concise introduction. The article's conclusion should be written at the beginning, not at the end as usual.

15. At the end of the article, clearly restate your stance, whether supporting or opposing (pro or contra) an issue.

16. Good writing provides clarity on an issue. Writing can be critical but must not touch on sensitive issues involving religion and race that could disrupt public order and harmony.

17. Send your article, adhering to these guidelines, to En. Mohamad Amirul Mohd Adnan Ali at email: m.amirul@upm.edu.my / nmohd77@upm.edu.my .

Updated:: 07/08/2025 [hairul_nizam]