Kerangka pendidikan tinggi baharu mesti lindung kebebasan akademik, kata Suhakam

Malaysia's human rights watchdog, Suhakam, has emphasized that any new higher education framework introduced after the 1971 Universities and University Colleges Act (Auku) was repealed must be built on the principles of academic freedom and student rights. Although Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has stated that Auku will be repealed without a new law, Suhakam insists that any future framework must still adhere to human rights principles.

The body recommends that the framework be developed through meaningful dialogue involving students, academic staff, university leadership, civil society, and relevant stakeholders. It must also address issues of student political participation, protecting academic and research freedom to teach, conduct research, publish findings, share views, and engage in public discourse without undue interference or concern about any undue pressure.

Suhakam stresses the need for a clear transition to ensure the continued functioning of universities without reverting to restrictive practices that unnecessarily compromise fundamental freedoms. The watchdog also notes that the repeal of Auku should bring about substantive changes to the country's higher education landscape. Universities should become open spaces for diverse viewpoints, idea exchange, and free debate, allowing students to develop critical thinking and play a meaningful role in society.

Auku had been a contentious area concerning student freedom to challenge, unite, and express views on political and public issues. The last major amendment to the Act occurred in 2024, granting greater autonomy to student unions in fundraising and other activities. Prior to this, the Ministry of Higher Education stated that there were no plans to repeal the entire Act.