Govt must not to replace UUCA with another ‘oppressive’ law, says deputy education minister

On August 19, the Deputy Higher Education Minister, Adam Adli Abd Halim, cautioned against the replacement of the repealed Universities and University Colleges Act (UUCA) 1971 with another restrictive law. He emphasized that the new legal framework must enhance university autonomy and academic freedom, addressing the shortcomings of the UUCA, which has undergone seven amendments since its inception in 1971.

Adli stressed the importance of meaningful student participation in the governance of higher education institutions and highlighted that the repeal should not result in the introduction of another oppressive law. He stressed that the framework should create a platform for the higher education sector to become more progressive.

The process to draft the framework will involve consultations with various stakeholders, including students, university leaders, academics, and policymakers. The Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) has reviewed historical records, legal interpretations, and key recommendations from the Malaysia Higher Education Blueprint to ensure the new framework is built on strong principles.

Adli stressed the need for a developmental and liberating framework that fosters knowledge advancement, healthy debate, and academic freedom. He also emphasized the importance of inclusive consultations to prevent any covert clauses and ensure that all relevant parties benefit from the upcoming Act.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim had reassured the public that UUCA would be fully repealed without introducing any restrictive or oppressive laws. Prior to his assurance, UUCA had seen various amendments, including allowing student participation in political activities outside campus in 2012 and transferring disciplinary actions from vice-chancellors to a Student Disciplinary Committee in 2024.