Pemansuhan Auku ‘hadiah’ buat perjuangan mahasiswa, kata Adam Adli

Adam Adli, who served as the deputy minister of higher education, hailed the Malaysian government's decision to repeal the University and University College Act 1971 (Auku) as a reward for the long-standing struggle of students. Speaking at a PKR National Congress 2026, Adli emphasized that the Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's announcement marked a significant milestone in the government's commitment to reform.

"I acknowledge the announcement of the PM regarding the repeal of Auku as a great sign of the government's commitment to reform," he stated in a statement.

Rather than focusing on who benefited or who received credit from the repeal, Adli paid tribute to the individuals who fought together for change, including those who faced pressure and actions due to their outspoken nature. "I only remember the faces who stood together," he said, acknowledging the courage of those who feared but still spoke out, and those who were punished but continued to voice their opinions.

Adli described this as a reward for the perseverance of student activists throughout history. "Thank you, Prime Minister," he concluded. Previously, Anwar had announced the government's intention to repeal Auku during his address at the PKR National Congress 2026, stating that while some amendments were made to the act, some students were still unsatisfied with certain provisions and demanded more freedom.

Earlier, the Ministry of Higher Education had clarified that there were no plans to entirely repeal Auku, despite the act having undergone several amendments since its introduction in 1971.