DAP backs Anwar ‘100 per cent’ on AUKU abolition, Loke says reforms must go further

PUTRAJAYA, Aug 16 — The DAP has declared its unwavering support for Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in his pledge to abolish the Universities and University Colleges Act (AUKU), according to Anthony Loke Siew Fook, the DAP secretary-general. However, Loke emphasized that this support must be mirrored in other promised reforms. Loke highlighted that education reform should extend beyond the abolition of AUKU and prioritize equitable access to higher education for all Malaysians, irrespective of their racial identity.

He stressed, "AUKU is just one piece of the puzzle. The true essence of education reform lies in ensuring equal opportunities for higher education for every Malaysian, regardless of their background." Loke underscored that no Malaysian should be barred from pursuing higher education due to their racial background. He reiterated, "Every Malaysian who meets the academic criteria should be granted admission into a public university or institution of higher learning.

This should be the guiding principle and spirit of the reforms the Prime Minister intends to implement." During his address at the DAP congress, Loke further affirmed that the party would back any proposals, formulas, or policies from Anwar aimed at alleviating the financial strain on Malaysians. He stated, "We are ready to express our unwavering support for these beneficial changes.

Our focus, however, must be on the effective implementation and decisive actions taken by the Prime Minister and the Cabinet. It is my sincere hope that the decisions made by the DAP national congress today will serve as a potent message that Malaysia is on the path to becoming a progressive nation," Loke concluded.