New higher education law must be future-ready, says Zambry

Higher education minister Zambry Abd Kadir emphasized that the upcoming legislative framework for higher education in Malaysia must be comprehensive and forward-thinking, following the repeal of the Universities and University Colleges Act 1971 (Auku). Minister Zambry clarified that Auku is not merely a student affairs or freedoms regulation.

Instead, it serves as the foundational legislation for the establishment, management, and governance of universities and university colleges. Consequently, the repeal of Auku necessitates the implementation of a new, more encompassing, progressive, and relevant legislative framework that caters to the contemporary and future needs of higher education.

The Malaysian Higher Education Plan 2026-2035 outlines efforts to reform the higher education framework through a proposed One Higher Education Act. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim had previously announced the government's intention to repeal Auku, citing ongoing dissatisfaction with certain provisions despite multiple amendments. Minister Zambry stressed that the development of the new framework will be a collaborative and thorough process, considering the perspectives of various stakeholders such as university leaders, academics, private and public higher education institutions, industry participants, polytechnics and community colleges, technical and vocational education and training providers, legal experts, students, and other pertinent entities.

The primary objective is not solely to repeal the Act but to establish a more comprehensive and forward-looking higher education legislative framework that bolsters institutional autonomy, academic freedom, and student representation, while preserving the governance, accountability, and excellence standards of higher education institutions.