Umno youth leaders want clarity on Auku replacement [WATCH]

As the debate surrounding the proposed abolition of the Universities and University Colleges Act 1971 (Auku) intensifies, Umno's youth leaders are calling for the government to provide clarity on the next steps. They argue that students should be granted greater freedom to express differing opinions, engage in critical thinking, and participate in democratic activities.

However, they caution that scrapping Auku without a clear replacement could create uncertainty for universities regarding governance, discipline, and accountability.

Mohd Farhan Ahmad, the Pokok Sena Umno Youth chief, stated that the reform should empower students to voice diverse perspectives and engage in constructive debate. He emphasized that Umno Youth is not opposed to students speaking up, but rather wants them to demonstrate the courage to think independently and hold differing viewpoints.

Farhan urged students to be treated as future leaders capable of debating, disagreeing, and criticizing responsibly, rather than being viewed as a group whose voices need to be suppressed. He stressed that the abolition of Auku should not be a mere slogan, but rather a catalyst for meaningful reform that strengthens students and universities.

Intan Noor Shaziera Ridzuan, a Merbok Puteri Umno committee member, advocated for a balance between student freedom and discipline, campus safety, and accountability. She emphasized that Auku could be revised and improved to meet contemporary needs, but its complete abolition should not be rushed simply to fulfill a political agenda.

Ridzuan stressed that universities must remain safe spaces where students, particularly women, can speak up, assume leadership roles, and participate in decision-making processes without fear of intimidation, harassment, or discrimination.

Khairul Izman Mohadzir, Umno Youth chief for Fasa 3, called for a comprehensive governance framework before Auku is abolished. He acknowledged that the law may need to be updated to reflect current realities, but questioned whether a complete abolition was the most appropriate solution. Mohadzir emphasized that while student freedom should be celebrated, universities also require discipline, academic stability, and clear lines of responsibility.

He cautioned against abolishing an important framework merely to appear progressive without having a clear replacement plan in place.