Abolishment of AUKU major sign of government's commitment to reform, says Adam Adli

KUALA LUMPUR: The repeal of the Universities and University Colleges Act (AUKU) 1971 signifies the government's dedication to reform and a long-awaited blessing to the student movement that has been advocating for its abolition for years, stated Deputy Higher Education Minister Adam Adli Abd Halim. The decision also acknowledges the students who have persistently voiced their demands for the Act's repeal.

With a focus solely on the facts provided, the main concern is not who gained recognition or credit, but rather the gratitude towards those who stood alongside him. Those who were initially scared but still attended, as well as those who faced punishment yet continued to speak out, are thanked. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced the repeal of AUKU during his policy speech at the PKR National Congress 2026.

The government's decision to repeal AUKU was based on memoranda and viewpoints submitted by student leaders who had urged for substantial changes to the Act. The Prime Minister emphasized that while previous amendments to AUKU had granted students the opportunity to be active, this freedom needed to expand in accordance with Malaysia's education reform agenda.