Abolition of AUKU will foster critical thinking in universities, says G25 civil society group

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 18 — A group of prominent retired civil servants, known as G25 Malaysia, has welcomed Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's pledge to abolish the Universities and University Colleges Act 1971 (AUKU). They believe this will encourage independent and critical thinking within Malaysia's higher education institutions. G25 argues that universities should be spaces where young Malaysians are motivated to question established views, engage in responsible citizenship, and exchange ideas.

The civil society group welcomed the Prime Minister's commitment to a new law that would not infringe on the rights and freedoms of university students. They emphasized that this new legislation should uphold principles of academic freedom, institutional autonomy, and freedom of expression and association. G25 hopes that the drafting process for this new law will be transparent and involve extensive consultation with various stakeholders, including students, academics, university administrators, and civil society representatives.

G25 also welcomed the Prime Minister's suggestion to create a new law governing government-linked companies (GLCs). They noted that these entities manage significant public resources and play a crucial role in Malaysia's economy. The proposed GLC law should define GLCs and GLICs clearly, establish transparent and merit-based criteria for appointing top executives, and include strict provisions against political interference and conflicts of interest.

Furthermore, the legislation should promote transparency in procurement, ensure parliamentary oversight, and require regular reporting, auditing, and public disclosure of the use and performance of public assets.