Jawatankuasa Parlimen mahu undang menteri bincang pemansuhan Auku

A special parliamentary committee wishes to invite the Minister of Higher Education to discuss proposals to repeal the Universities and University Colleges Act (Auku), according to Pengerusi Jawatankuasa Khas Parlimen Kebangsaan, Pendidikan dan Pembangunan Sumber Manusia, Saifuddin Abdullah. The committee believes that serious research is necessary as Auku extends beyond controlling student freedom and discipline to encompass the basic principles of university and university management.

Parliamentarian Indera Mahkota, Saifuddin Abdullah, stated that the matter requires thorough investigation because Auku is not merely about regulating student freedom and discipline, but it is a cornerstone act related to the establishment and administration of universities and university colleges. He emphasized, "Therefore, if Auku is repealed, it must be replaced with something better and more comprehensive."

Recently, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced the government's plan to repeal Auku following several amendments that still do not satisfy students seeking more freedom. Introduced in 1971, Auku has undergone seven amendments, including one in 2012 that permitted students to participate in political party activities outside campus, and the latest amendment in 2024 which provided students with more space to raise funds and accept donations.

Saifuddin, who also oversees the Education Reform Policy portfolio under Perikatan Nasional, suggested that the combination of these amendments should lead to the replacement of Auku with a new, better, and comprehensive act. He believes that expanding student freedom cannot solely depend on legal amendments because certain universities have been operating in a draconian manner, misusing Auku to restrict students.

Saifuddin, also the Chief Secretary-General of the Vision Malaysia Party, stated that while expanding student freedom through legal amendments is possible, negative university management practices need to be addressed at the administrative level. This involves broader issues such as the spirit of university success, which includes student and academic freedom.