University leaders welcome Auku abolishment, call for balance between freedom, accountability

The Malaysian government has announced plans to abolish the Universities and University Colleges Act 1971 (Auku), a move that has been welcomed by public university leaders as a significant step towards enhancing institutional autonomy, governance, and academic freedom. These leaders emphasized that any new legal framework must strike a balance between freedom and accountability.

Professor Dr Yatimah Alias, vice-chancellor of Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah, stressed that the abolishment should be seen as part of a broader, inclusive process involving various stakeholders. She highlighted the importance of balancing freedom with responsibility, particularly in the realm of freedom of expression, which should be grounded in facts and respect, while financial autonomy and student activities must remain transparent.

Similarly, Prof Emeritus Datuk Seri Dr Osman Bakar of International Islamic University Malaysia emphasized that the move would empower students to develop mature thinking, strengthen leadership capabilities, and contribute constructively to society. He stressed that this freedom must be matched with intellectual integrity and a concern for the common good.

Prof Suriyani Muhamad, deputy vice-chancellor of Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, described the repeal as a "golden opportunity" to clarify university accountability, stressing that the new framework must balance autonomy, accountability, freedom, responsibility, innovation, and good governance. UTeM also expressed support for the government's efforts to develop a comprehensive legal framework under the One Higher Education Act agenda, pledging to collaborate closely in stakeholder engagements.

These responses collectively underscore the importance of balancing freedom with accountability in higher education institutions as Malaysia transitions to a new legal framework.