Provide clear timeline on Auku repeal, govt told

The Universiti Malaya Association of New Youth (Umany) and NGO Mandiri have urged the Malaysian government to provide a clear timeline for repealing the Universities and University Colleges Act 1971 (Auku). Both organizations expressed dissatisfaction with certain provisions of the act despite recent amendments. Umany called for all higher learning institutions to review and withdraw disciplinary actions against students for exercising their fundamental rights, such as expressing views, participating in peaceful assemblies, and organizing activities.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim acknowledged the need for repeal and stated that several amendments had been made to the act. However, students remain unsatisfied, leading the government to decide to abolish the act altogether. Experts suggest pursuing quick-win policies, such as diversifying and decentralizing the appointment of public university board members, while the replacement legislation for Auku is developed.

These measures, including electing college deans entirely by academic staff and implementing strict financial disclosure, are seen as more urgent than simply abolishing the act.