Kuala lumpur: The new legal framework set to replace the Universities and University Colleges Act (AUKU) 1971 must prioritize strengthening university autonomy and academic freedom, ensuring it does not replicate the shortcomings of the previous Act, according to Deputy Higher Education Minister Adam Adli Abd Halim. He emphasized the need for reforms that would enhance student participation in the governance of higher education institutions.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Adam Adli highlighted the importance of the new framework in fostering progressive changes within the university sector. He stressed that the repeal of AUKU should not result in another oppressive law, echoing sentiments long opposed by stakeholders. The framework should serve as a foundation for universities and the higher education sector to advance and innovate.
Adam Adli further explained that the drafting process will involve comprehensive consultations with key stakeholders, including student representatives, university leadership, academics, and policymakers. The Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) has consulted historical records, legal interpretations, and foundational recommendations like the One Higher Education Act from the Malaysia Higher Education Blueprint to guide the new framework's development on clear principles.
He underscored the necessity for a framework that is both developmental and liberating, allowing universities to thrive as centers of knowledge, debate, and academic freedom. Adam Adli called for inclusive involvement from all relevant parties to prevent any hidden clauses, advocating for broader and more meaningful consultations for those protected under the forthcoming Act.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim recently assured that AUKU would be fully repealed without introducing restrictive or oppressive laws towards student movements. Since its introduction in 1971, AUKU has undergone several amendments, including significant changes in 2012 and the latest in 2024, which altered disciplinary authority from vice-chancellors to the Student Disciplinary Committee.
Dr. Anuar Ahmad, Deputy Director of the Malaysian Inclusive Development and Advancement Institute (MINDA) at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, previously suggested that the repeal of AUKU 1971 should be followed by establishing a high-level committee to evaluate the new legal framework for safeguarding the governance and management of higher education institutions.