Melaka:The new bill set to replace the Universities and University Colleges Act 1971 (AUKU) will safeguard students' freedom of expression, according to Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid stated that the Cabinet's proposed legislation focuses on university administration matters such as academic affairs, governance, and the appointment of senate members. The legislation will also address the selection of university management personnel, including vice-chancellors and deputy vice-chancellors.

Ahmad Zahid emphasized that the new law would not include the seven provisions from AUKU that restricted student activities, ensuring that students' freedoms will be maintained. He made these comments during the Apa Khabar Mahasiswa Patriotisme Diperkasa program at Universiti Teknologi MARA’s Alor Gajah Campus in Melaka. Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir was also present at the event.

Furthermore, Ahmad Zahid highlighted that universities should not penalize students for expressing their opinions unless it involves sensitive issues related to race, religion, and the royal institution. He noted that while the AUKU allowed for action against students, the new framework would rely on existing laws, including criminal legislation, to regulate student conduct.

In addition to these developments, Ahmad Zahid announced that the Department of Quantum Technology at UiTM would begin enrolment next semester, under a training-for-trainers scheme. The initiative will see academic staff undergo master's or PhD studies, as well as short courses, to prepare for leadership roles within the new department, which is set to evolve into the Faculty of Quantum Technology. An initial funding of RM500,000 was allocated for this purpose in October.