Independent committee to study new law replacing Auku, says Zambry

The higher education minister, Zambry Abd Kadir, announced the formation of an independent committee to study the drafting of a new law that will replace the Universities and University Colleges Act 1971, commonly referred to as Auku. This decision was made following the Cabinet's approval of repealing Auku and introducing a new law, to be known as the One Higher Education Act.

The minister emphasized the importance of this interim legal mechanism to ensure the smooth functioning of universities during the transition period from Auku's repeal to the enactment of the new legislation. Zambry clarified that drafting the new law would be a time-consuming process, as Auku encompasses a broad range of aspects related to higher education, including university establishment, governance, academics, and student affairs.

The minister stressed that the committee's formation is a commitment from the government, including Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, the Cabinet, and the ministry, to ensure that the new law addresses the needs of the entire higher education sector.