AUKU abolition must involve students, academics, civil society, says youth NGO

KUALA LUMPUR: Youth non-governmental organization Mandiri has urged broad stakeholder involvement in the committee overseeing the abolition of the Universities and University Colleges Act 1971 (AUKU). Coordinator Hamdin Nordin stated that the Higher Education Ministry should ensure wider stakeholder engagement in crafting a new legal framework for higher education institution governance.

Nordin highlighted that the AUKU abolition was a significant step towards strengthening democracy and freedom in higher education but called for a clear implementation process and timeline. He cautioned against the announcement becoming a mere reform promise left unfinished. Hamdin emphasized that the ministry should draft new legislation inclusively, involving students, academics, and civil society, ensuring the new framework doesn't reinstate student freedom restrictions.

The abolition must align with the original aim of restoring student autonomy in managing affairs and upholding academic freedom. Mandiri pledged continued support for the student movement's campaign against AUKU, describing it as a restrictive law that should be abolished. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced the AUKU abolition as part of broader reform efforts, in response to student concerns, and acknowledged ongoing amendments to increase student freedom.