Kuala lumpur: The Universities and University Colleges Act (AUKU) 1971 should be retained as the primary legal framework that remains relevant in driving excellence in the nation's higher education institutions. Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) deputy vice-chancellor (Student Affairs and Alumni) Prof Dr Mohd Izani Mohd Zain emphasized the importance of maintaining the AUKU, citing policy considerations that ensure stability and progress across the overall university ecosystem.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the AUKU has served as the main pillar for the establishment, maintenance, and administration of public universities in Malaysia since its enforcement in April 1971. The Act's dynamic nature has been proven through eight amendments, which include improvements in governance and the management of student activities. Prof Dr Mohd Izani highlighted the Ministry of Higher Education's readiness to review and replace outdated provisions, demonstrating that the Act is continually enhanced to safeguard academic freedom and meet current institutional needs.
Prof Dr Mohd Izani commented on Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir's firm stance that the ministry has no intention of abolishing the AUKU, noting its improvements over time. Zambry mentioned that the AUKU remains the main legal framework for the establishment, maintenance, and administration of public universities, having undergone eight amendments covering various scopes, including enhancements in governance, activity management, and student discipline.
Elaborating further, Mohd Izani agreed that improving specific provisions within the AUKU is the most appropriate step now, as it ensures academic stability and campus security. He stated that amendments over the years have helped universities achieve their educational objectives by providing students with freedom, thereby nurturing them to become mature, balanced, and harmonious individuals in line with the National Education Philosophy.
Mohd Izani added that the AUKU should be viewed as a platform for shaping student leadership, rather than a mere instrument of restriction. Through the implemented amendments, students are given wider space in freedom of association, strengthening the role of Student Representative Councils (SRC), as well as opportunities to independently manage student finances and contributions. In this regard, he noted that UMT remains committed to ensuring that every space provided within the AUKU framework is fully utilized to produce knowledgeable, ethical, and professional graduates for the nation's excellence.